A review on the optical properties of polymer–metal nanocomposites: emphasis on UV shielding

The use of polymer-based nanocomposites (NCs) in which metal and metal oxide nanoparticles are combined represents a critical point of comparison owing to their improved linear optical characteristics and wide indications in optoelectronics, sensors, and medical devices. In this survey, the synthesis method casting, material properties, and optical behavior of polystyrene, polymethyl methacrylate and polyvinyl alcohol–doped NPs have been widely studied, along with many other single and bimetallic-based NCs such as aluminum, silver, and zinc oxide, the latter two of which is also discussed in much detail below. The effects of nanoparticle-specific composition, dose, and preparation on the principal optical properties such as absorbance, reflectance, refractive index, and optical conductivity are identified. The ultraviolet-shielding capacities of the composites have attracted special attention, which can help develop them as protective coatings, packaging materials, and photonic devices as interesting materials. These findings can help to point a way for further experimental development and for applied development of functional NCs.