Study of Physicochemical Properties of PVC Thin Films Affected by Carbon Nanotubes to Prevent Photodegradation During UV Light Exposure

This study investigates the impact of carbon nanotubes on the structure of poly(vinyl chloride). Carbon nanotubes derived from corn cobs (1 g) and molten sodium hydroxide (3 g) at a weight ratio of 1:3 were used as additives. These doped poly(vinyl chloride) samples were analyzed. Different concentrations of carbon nanotubes (0.25, 0.50, and 0.75) were incorporated into the poly(vinyl chloride) lattice. The effects of these additions demonstrated remarkable resistance to continuous ultraviolet light exposure, effectively countering photodegradation. Before introducing the nanoparticles, volatile substances generated free radicals, leading to reduced weight and molecular weight in PVC thin films. To counteract degradation, stabilizers were introduced to the polymer. Photostability was achieved by doping PVC with carbon nanotubes, with monitoring of carbonyl groups (ICO), polyene (IC=C), and hydroxyl (IOH) growth against irradiation time. Upon adding carbon nanotubes, ICO values increased from 0.16 to 0.24, and IC=C values rose from 0.17 to 0.28. Conversely, IOH decreased from 0.14 to 0.058, mitigating photodegradation. Crystalline size and micro-strain were calculated. The study also tracked surface morphology and weight loss changes in nanocomposite PVC thin films upon irradiation. The findings demonstrated the effective UV-blocking capabilities of carbon nanotube-PVC blends, providing substantial protection to thin films. Additionally, weight loss calculations, polymeric thin film surface changes, and viscosity assessments were conducted.