Theoretical and experimental investigation of the magnetic properties of polyvinylidene fluoride and magnetite nanoparticles-based nanocomposites

AbstractIn the present study, the effect of size distribution of magnetite nanoparticles in a PVDF matrix on the magnetic properties of PVDF + Fe۳O۴ nanocomposites was experimentally and theoretically investigated. The size distribution of nanoparticles in polymer matrix and morphology of the nanocomposites were studied by the means of scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. It was found that when the Fe۳O۴ nanoparticles are introduced into the polymer matrix, their coagulation takes place. The increase in the size of the particles depends on their concentration in the polymer matrix, the type of polymer (polar, non-polar, its viscosity, etc.), reaction temperatures, etc. In addition, when Fe۳O۴ nanoparticles are introduced into the polymer network, the oxidation of the surface layer of particles occurs and the magnetic size decreases. Consequently, the reduced magnetic properties may also be observed. The hysteresis loops have been recorded in small magnetic field range. It was found that the magnetic hysteresis parameters depend on the size and concentration of Fe۳O۴ nanoparticles. Theoretical calculations were compared with experimental results obtained from M(H) measurements. The reasons of differences between theoretical and experimental results have been explained.