MORE | Spring 2025

Tailoring the Macroscopic Properties of Polymer Nanocomposites by Nanoparticles via Interfacial Engineering

Self-healing recyclable polymers are proposed as sustainable materials to mitigate waste associated with conventional plastics. Self-healing behavior can be introduced via the incorporation of surface-functionalized gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) into polymer matrices of poly(N,N-dimethyl acrylamide) (PDMA), however at the cost of a very stiff and brittle mechanical framework. This project addresses such trade-off by engineering enthalpic (hydrogen bond) and entropic (particle size) interactions at the nanoparticle-polymer interface. Control of nanoparticles via concentration, size (5-18 nm), and surface functionality along with the incorporation of soft polymer architecture of poly(butyl acrylate) (PBA) is shown to tailor thermal and mechanical properties while maintaining the healing rate. The results support the development of resilient, long-lasting materials by expanding their utilities into various demanding applications, ultimately contributing to waste reduction and environmental sustainability.