Wasted amethyst as effective additives in PVDF‐HFP composite films for dielectric materials

Abstract

Abstract The objective of this research work is to investigate the influence of recycled amethyst on the properties of poly(vinylidene fluoride‐ co ‐hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF‐HFP) composite films, with a particular focus on enhancing mechanical and electrical properties for energy harvesting applications. The composite films made from PVDF‐HFP/waste amethyst were fabricated by varying the amethyst content (0 to 0.5 parts per hundred of resin, phr) and using amethyst particles with an average size of 9.02 μm, along with a fixed 3% silane coupling agent (Silane‐69). X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis revealed that amethyst is primarily composed of SiO₂ with trace amounts of iron. Increasing the amethyst content resulted in notable improvements in mechanical performance, with ultimate tensile strength increasing from 4.75 to 7.43 MPa and Young's modulus rising from 156.00 to 258.21 MPa. Water contact angle measurements demonstrated enhanced hydrophobicity, increasing from 66° to 73°, while X‐ray diffraction (XRD) showed an increase in β‐phase crystallinity, from 0.539 to 0.600. SEM–EDX mapping confirmed the uniform dispersion of amethyst particles and an increase in surface roughness. Electrical testing revealed that the composite with 0.5 phr amethyst exhibited the highest conductivity and dielectric constant. This study highlights the potential of using wasted amethyst as an eco‐friendly additive to improve the dielectric properties of PVDF‐HFP composite films. This innovative approach not only enhances dielectric performance but also promotes sustainability by utilizing wasted materials, offering advantages in both cost‐effectiveness and environmental impact. Highlights Waste amethyst is used as an effective additive for sustainable applications. Waste amethyst improves the dielectric and mechanical properties of PVDF‐HFP. Waste amethyst increases the β‐phase of PVDF‐HFP. Waste amethyst enhances the conductivity of PVDF‐HFP. PVDF‐HFP composite shows the potential for sustainable energy materials.