Insights into the electroactive impact of magnetic nanostructures in PVDF composites via small-angle neutron scattering

Abstract

Poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) is technologically relevant due to its thermal stability; chemical, mechanical and radiation resistance; transparency; biocompatibility; and ease of processing. Several of those applications are related to its high electroactivity, for which the β-phase of the polymer is its most renowned protagonist. In this context, extensive research has been conducted on the crystallization of PVDF in the β-phase, when processed from melt and from solution. Several decades of research have revealed that electroactive β-PVDF can be nucleated by introducing nanofillers within the polymer matrix, based on electrostatic interactions between polymer chains and fillers. However, one question persists: beyond these electrostatic interactions, on what mechanism does the nucleation of the β-phase in composites depend? This works demonstrates, through the use of small-angle neutron scattering measurements, that the answer is related to the type of fillers' agglomeration.