Piezoelectric behavior of Gamma-radiated nanocomposite hydrogel based on PVP-PEG-BaTiO3

This study aimed to evaluate the properties of nanocomposite hydrogel (NCH) based on poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP), poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG), and Barium titanate (BTNPs). Gamma radiation at various doses (25 kGy, 35 kGy) was employed to prepare cross-linked hydrogel. The effect of PVP concentration, PVP/PEG ratio, and BTNPs content, and irradiation dosage on gel content and swelling ratio of synthesized hydrogels were determined. The Flory-Rehner equation was employed to calculate the network parameters. The FTIR results indicate that the chemical structure was deformed through crosslinking PVP macromolecule radicals. The XRD spectra indicated the cubic phase of BTNPs particles and the amorphous state of the hydrogel after exposure to gamma-ray radiation. Rheology studies were conducted to realize the viscoelastic response of hydrogel. Elastic modulus (G′) was greater than viscous modulus (G″) due to the solid behavior of hydrogels. The dielectric properties of hydrogels against frequency (100 Hz–1 MHz) revealed that dielectric permittivity of hydrogels increased by incorporating BTNPs (1, 2, and 3% wt) within the hydrogel. The piezoelectric response of poled NCH to mechanical stimulation was evaluated. The results suggest that synthesized NCH can be used in biomimetic applications due to swelling behavior, dielectric and piezoelectric properties.