Fabrication of PMMA/SiO₂ nanocomposite thin films: Optical and microwave radiation shielding properties

Incorporating SiO 2 nanoparticles (SNPs) into Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) matrices can significantly enhance the optical and microwave shielding properties of nanocomposite thin films. In this study, PMMA/SiO 2 nanocomposite thin films (PSNTFs) with varying concentrations of SNPs (1–10[Formula: see text]wg%) were fabricated using the solution casting method. The morphology of the films was characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM), revealing SNP sizes between 11.90[Formula: see text]nm and 16.66[Formula: see text]nm. Optical absorption, extinction coefficient and optical conductivity were studied in the ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectrum, showing a marked dependence on nanoparticle concentration. Additionally, microwave radiation shielding properties were evaluated, highlighting the potential application of these composites in electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding. The results suggest that increasing SNP content improves optical and shielding efficiency, positioning these materials as promising candidates for advanced optoelectronic and microwave shielding applications.