This NIST-sponsored research involves the preparation of polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) with high refractive indices (RIs). The PNCs were prepared by blending newly devised polymers with surface-modified zirconia nanocrystals. The invented PNCs possessed RIs in the range of 1.62�1.75 and maintained absorbance values of < 0.005 for the visible wavelength range. The PNCs were scrutinized for their UV light and heat stability for = 140 hours. Films made of Class A PNCs exhibited excellent UV light stability with about 17% film thickness loss. Films made of Class B PNCs could withstand 200�C with about 9% film thickness loss. Insignificant changes in optical properties were seen for these PNCs. Also, films made of Class C PNCs exhibited a thickness loss of about 18% when subjected to UV light and heat (100�C) simultaneously, but their k values increased, which is under further investigation. Material manufacturability was a top criterion for this research.

Development of polymer nanocomposites with high refractive indices for LED and advanced optoelectronic applications

243rd National Meeting (2012)

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