Nanostructure matrix interactions in methacrylate composites

A self assembled nanostructure with -OH functionality having the chemical formula [(DMSO)(MeOH)Cu2(benzene-1,3-dicarboxylate-5-OH)2]12 has been incorporated into two polymeric systems. This nanoparticle is rhombihexahedral in shape and possesses 24 hydroxyl groups on the surface. Its incorporation into poly(2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate) gives rise to a hydrogel in which an increase in the glass transition and degree of crosslinking is observed. The nanocomposites are optically transparent and show enhanced interfacial interaction between the two components. An opposite effect is observed upon the inclusion of the nanoparticle in poly(methyl methacrylate) via in situ ultrasonic polymerization. In this study the thermal, dielectric and mechanical data are used to characterize these novel nanocomposites.