Nanostructured gold dispersed polyethylmethaacrylate/dextran hybrid composites for packaging applications

ABSTRACTHerein, polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)/dextran(D) hybrid composites are prepared by reinforcement of various concentrations of in situ reduced gold nanoparticles (Au NPs). As-synthesised PMMA/D-Au nanocomposites are characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction(XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy(FESEM), high resolution transmission electron microscopy(HRTEM) and atomic force microscopy(AFM). It is found that, the average size of Au NPs is 30 nm. The size distributions of Au NPs are studied from dynamics light scattering studies (DLS). The incorporation of Au NPs enhances the oxygen barrier, thermal, and antimicrobial properties of the PMMA/D matrix, by which, the hybrid composites are suitable for packaging applications.