Abstract: (131 Views)
This research systematically examines the structural, electrical, and optical characteristics of Tamarind Seed Polysaccharide (TSP)--based biopolymer electrolytes that are doped with varying concentrations of sodium iodide (NaI). Composite films were synthesized using the solution cast technique in weight percent ratios of TSP: NaI (100:0, 90:10, 80:20, 70:30) and subsequently characterized employing X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–Vis spectroscopy, and impedance analysis. The XRD analysis indicated that the 80:20 composition displayed the highest degree of amorphousness, which is associated with improved ionic conductivity and reduced crystallite size. The FTIR analysis corroborated the occurrence of complexation between TSP and NaI, while the temperature-dependent conductivity measurements conformed to Arrhenius behaviour, with the 80:20 film achieving the ionic conductivity (1.97x10⁻4 S/cm) and the lowest activation energy (0.69 eV). Optical absorption investigations revealed a decrease in the bandgap from 3.92 (pure TSP) to 2.68 eV (80:20 film). Minimum optical energy bandgaps were achieved for the optimized film. Opto-dielectric investigations further demonstrated that the 80:20 formulation exhibited optimal dielectric permittivity and loss. The results underscore the potential applicability of TSP–NaI biopolymer systems as sustainable, high-performance polymer electrolytes.
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Highlights
- The synthesis of biopolymer electrolyte films was accomplished through the solution casting technique.
- The incorporation of Tamarind Seed Polysaccharide (TSP) with various concentrations of Sodium Iodide (NaI).
- X-ray Diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated that this composition 80:20 film exhibited the highest degree of amorphousness and the smallest crystallite dimensions (0.31 nm),
- Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy substantiated the occurrence of complexation between TSP and NaI.
- Temperature dependence conductivity indicated that the 80:20 compositions possessed the highest ionic conductivity (1.97x10⁻4 S/cm).
- The lowest activation energy (0.69 eV), consistent with Arrhenius-type behaviour.
- The Tangent loss corroborated these results, demonstrating an optimal relaxation profile for the 80% TSP:20% NaI composition.
- Optical absorption analyses revealed a reduction in the band gap from 3.92 eV (pure TSP) to 2.68 eV.
- Optical band gap confirmed lower energy transitions for the 80:20 film, thereby endorsing its efficient conduction. Urbach energy exhibited the highest value for the 80:20 film, indicating a greater degree of structural disorder.