Synthesis, Comprehensive Characterization, and Enhanced Dielectric Performance of Chitosan–Silver Oxide Composites for Advanced Electronic Applications

Abstract

In this study, we synthesized and characterized chitosan–silver oxide (Ag₂O) nanocomposites to investigate their dielectric properties and potential applications in advanced electronics. Comprehensive analysis using techniques such as TGA, EDX, XRD, SEM, and FTIR confirmed the successful formation of uniformly dispersed Ag₂O nanoparticles within the chitosan matrix. The interaction between silver oxide and the active sites of chitosan was crucial in achieving this stable composite structure. Our findings revealed that the dielectric permittivity of the nanocomposites decreases with increasing frequency, particularly in samples with higher Ag₂O content, because of Maxwell–Wagner–Sillars interfacial polarization. Furthermore, the electric modulus analysis indicated reduced electrode polarization and enhanced α-relaxation with increased Ag₂O, suggesting improved performance in frequency-dependent applications. The conductivity behavior, characterized by a power-law dependence on frequency, aligns with the correlated barrier hopping model of charge transport. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations supported the experimental results, highlighting the stability and enhanced reactivity of the Ag₂O/CS composite compared with pure chitosan. These combined experimental and theoretical insights underscore the potential of Ag₂O/CS nanocomposites for applications in electrical engineering, catalysis, sensing, and nanomaterial fabrication.