Synthesis and characterization of tricyclodecyl-containing methacrylate polymer for optoelectronics applications

Abstract Tricyclodecyl-containing methacrylate polymers based on tricyclodecyl methacrylate (TCDMA), namely poly (tricyclodecyl methacrylate) [P (TCDMA)] and poly (tricyclodecyl methacrylate-co-methyl methacrylate) [P (TCDMA-co-MMA)], were synthesized by free radical polymerization. Homo- and copolymer were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and 13C NMR spectroscopy. The effects of structural design on the thermal, mechanical, dielectric and optical properties of synthetic polymers were studied. Compared to polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), the incorporation of a tricycloalkyl substituent as a side group on a methacrylate polymer helps to improve thermal stability, while providing high transparency and long-term heat resistance in the UV–visible region. In addition to improving mechanical properties, the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), water absorption and dielectric constant are reduced. These advantages make tricycloalkyl-containing methacrylate polymers promising candidates for use as high value-added optical plastics in optoelectronic applications.