Surface modification of alumina with biosafe molecules: Nanostructure, thermal, and mechanical properties of PVA nanocomposites
ABSTRACT
In this investigation, citric acid (CA) and ascorbic acid (AA) as biocompatible and biodegradable coupling agents were grafted onto surface of Al2O3 nanoparticles (NP)s via ultrasonic process. Then, various percentages of the modified Al2O3 NP were immobilized onto matrix of pristine poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and ameliorated their morphology, mechanical and thermal properties. Transmission electron microscopy photographs were valid criterion for characterizing morphology of Al2O3 with CA and AA. The improvement of the mechanical properties revealed good dispersion of the modified Al2O3 into the matrix of PVA. Finally, thermogravimetric analysis curves displayed an increase in the thermal stability of the nanocomposites upon grafting of the modified Al2O3