Facile strategy toward smart nanocomposite glass nanofiber-reinforced polysiloxane adhesives with superhydrophobic and photoluminescence properties

Smart adhesive was developed toward a simple preparation of photoluminescent and water-resistant products. The formulated adhesive persisted to emit light for up to 90 min after the lighting source was switched off. Rare-earth aluminate (SrAl₂O₄:Eu²⁺,Dy³⁺; SAO) nanoparticles (5–12 nm) and glass nanofibers (GNF) were distributed in liquid volcanized silicone rubber (VSR; polysiloxane) to produce a nanocomposite adhesive. Electrospun glass nanofibers (GNF) were used as a reinforcement agent, displaying diameters of 50–125 nm. SAO was evenly distributed without agglomeration in the polysiloxane matrix by using nanoparticles, allowing the resultant nanocomposite adhesive to be transparent. The applied adhesives exhibited an emission band at 519 nm when excited at 365 nm. According to the SAO concentration, the photoluminescence spectra exhibited either fluorescence or afterglow emission. Photochromism was observed transitioning from translucent to green under an ultraviolet source and yellowish-green in a dark room. The developed adhesives showed scratch and water resistance owing to the incorporation of SAO nanoparticles (NPs) into the polysiloxane matrix. The SAO@VSR nanocomposite exhibited significant durability and photostability. This study demonstrated the viability of industrial production of intelligent adhesives for various uses, such as safety signs and smart windows.