Electrospun SNF/PMMA Nanofibers Doped with La2O3 and Nd2O3 for Energy Applications in Electronic Devices

Abstract In this study, electrospun nanofibers based on poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and sulphonated naphthalene formaldehyde condensate (SNF) doped with rare earth metal oxides (La 2 O 3 and Nd 2 O 3 ) were developed for potential use in energy applications within electronic devices. The morphology of the resulting nanofibers was examined using SEM, confirming uniform fiber formation with diameter range of 160–230 nm. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) validated the successful incorporation of La and Nd oxides. The frequency and temperature dependence of the dielectric constant (ε′), dielectric loss (ε″), and AC conductivity (σ ac ) of the SNF/PMMA nanofibers doped with varying concentrations of Nd 2 O 3 and La 2 O 3 were evaluated at temperature range of (30 °C ~ 120 °C). Dielectric characterization demonstrated a frequency- and temperature-dependent response. At 30 °C and low frequency (1 Hz), the dielectric constant (ε′) achieved values of ~ 16 for Nd2, ~ 12 for Nd1, ~ 6 for La2, and ~ 4 for La1, confirming the superior polarizability imparted by Nd 2 O 3 . The incorporation of SNF enhanced the thermal stability of the polymer matrix, while the rare earth dopants introduced unique electronic, dielectric, and structural properties. Sample coded Nd2, (SNF/PMMA + 0.02% Nd 2 O 3 ), exhibited the highest dielectric constant across the entire frequency range and temperature window, indicating enhanced polarizability due to the high dielectric nature of Nd 2 O 3 and the greater availability of mobile dipoles. These findings highlight the potential of SNF/PMMA-based nanofibers, doped with rare earth elements, as promising candidates for high-performance components in energy storage devices. Graphical Abstract