Abstract
Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) nanopowder was synthesized by a sol–gel method. It was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy. ITO/epoxy nanocomposites (ITO–EP-NCs) were prepared by mechanically dispersing the as-prepared ITO nanopowder into epoxy matrix. The XRD patterns show structural changes depending on ITO content. The interdependence of structural, morphological, optical properties and the dispersed concentration of ITO nanoparticles were investigated. The UV–visible absorption spectra revealed that the ITO–EP-NCs exhibit enhanced UV light absorption properties and wide absorption bandwidth ranging up to 400nm from 2wt% ITO loading. Thus, it indicated that UV and IR-shielding properties have been improved with the incorporation of ITO nanoparticles into the epoxy matrix.The gap energy of epoxy matrix was reduced by adding the ITO-NPs, leading to the improvement of its electrical conductivity. Indeed, the AC electrical conductivity of ITO–EP-NCs showed a critical percolation threshold pc=0.21wt% ITO. For low loading (<2wt% ITO), the ITO–EP-NCs have combined good transparency in the visible range and enhanced electrical conductivity, which are required for optoelectronics devices.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
