Improved Structural Bonding, Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Poly (Methy Methacrylate) (PMMA) Thin Film Induced by Chloroform Solvent Casting

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of chloroform solvent in improving the structural bonding, surface morphology and mechanical strength of poly (methy methacrylate) PMMA thin film via casting method. The functional group of this material was determined using the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and the surface morphology was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The mechanical properties were further characterized using the tensile testing machine and the hardness tester. SEM images reveal that the PMMA film surface exhibits a large and smooth homogeneous surface area, indicating the formation of a clear and highly transparent optical film. FTIR spectra demonstrate a slight band shift and enhanced intensity of C–O and C-H bands for the PMMA thin film as compared to the one in powder form. The mechanical strength of the present PMMA thin film was found to be much higher than that of the commercially available plastic and PMMA thin films, in which this finding could convey a significant insight in order to boost the availability and functionality of the current polymer applications. Keywords: PMMA thin film, IR spectra, Young’s modulus, Mechanical stretching, Hardness.