Theoretical Investigation of the Impact of Particle Size, Film Thickness, and Volume Fraction in Polymer-Ceramic Hybrid Nanocomposites for Optical Devices

Transparent materials are highly desirable for multiple optical devices, composite armours, smartphone screens and can be used as host materials for solid-state lasers. However, achieving transparency in composite materials is challenging due to the difference in refractive indices between the matrix and the fillers. The authors investigate the impact of various factors, including particle size, film thickness, and volume fraction, on the optical properties of epoxy-based nanocomposites. Using Rayleigh scattering theory, they assess the effect of different materials and manufacturing parameters on the transmittance of nanocomposites. Their findings suggest that a theoretical transmittance of over 90% can be achieved by using particle sizes less than 10 nm and film thicknesses less than 1 µm.