Effect of emulsion polymerisation conditions on electrical performance of polyaniline

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of the paper is to develop a method of synthesising polyaniline (PANI) with excellent electrical conductivity.

Design/methodology/approach

The preparation of PANI was carried out by vibration of emulsifier (SDBS), oxidant (APS) and hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution concentration. The changes of temperature and time of reaction had also been observed and researched.

Findings

Changing of reaction conditions was found to have a great influence on polyaniline's conductivity. The optimum condition for preparing polyaniline salt is as follows: the molar ratio of n(An)/n(SDBS)/n(APS) is 10/10/9, the concentration of HCl is 0.9 M, stirred constantly at 0°C for a period of 3 h. By using this emulsion polymerisation pathway the maximum of conductivity of polyaniline is 4.35 s/cm.

Practical implications

The method can be widely applicable to coatings, preparation of exfoliated clay composites and solution blending with other commodity polymers.

Originality/value

The method could be adapted for use on an industrial scale.

Citation

Zhao, D., Liu, X., Li, Z. and Bai, X. (2011), "Effect of emulsion polymerisation conditions on electrical performance of polyaniline", Pigment & Resin Technology, Vol. 40 No. 2, pp. 84-90. https://doi.org/10.1108/03699421111113738