Synthesis of Molybdenum Disulfide-Polyvinyl Alcohol Nanocomposite and Detailed Study of Its Optical Properties

The present study investigates the optical and electronic properties of molybdenum disulfide-polyvinyl alcohol (MoS2-PVA) nanocomposites. Cauliflower-like fractal MoS2 nanostructures were synthesized through a hydrothermal method using sodium molybdate and L-cystine as precursors. These synthesized nanostructures were then incorporated into PVA polymer chains to develop PVA-MoS2 composites. The X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed the successful phase formation of the nanocomposites, while field emission scanning electron microscopic images revealed the one-dimensional structure of the system. UV-Vis transmittance spectra were utilized to determine the band gap of the materials through Tauc plots. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy indicated the presence of specific chemical bonds and demonstrated significant changes in the vibrational energy levels of the pure polymer upon composite formation. Energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis with elemental mapping shows that the material maintained required stoichiometry. Thermogravimetric analysis of pure MoS2 demonstrates excellent thermal stability, withstanding temperatures as high as 700° C. This comprehensive study adds valuable insights to the existing literature on nanocomposite materials.