Nanocomposites of polyaniline nanofibers and metal nanoparticles (NPs) are of interest for catalysis, sensors, organic electronics, etc. We have observed increased deposition of NPs onto polymer nanofibers via electrostatic interaction between negatively charged sulfonated polyaniline and positively charged Au-NPs. However, since sulfonation increases water solubility, the nanofibers are degraded. To limit solubility, yet provide sufficient charge to attract Au-NPs, we have partially sulfonated polyaniline by co-polymerizing aniline and sulfonated aniline. SEM reveals similar morphology for nanofibers synthesized using 10% and 20% sulfonated monomer. However, as the quantity of the polymerization initiator is increased, fibers become increasingly fused and FTIR peaks related to the sulfonic acid group grow slightly in intensity. This suggests greater solubility via increased sulfonation. The synthesis of pure polyaniline does not require an initiator, but in its presence, fused nanofibers are obtained. This is also consistent with increased solubility and may represent a simpler route towards sulfonation.

Partial sulfonation of polyaniline nanofibers by co-polymerization: Effects of monomer ratio and polymerization initiator

244th National Meeting (2012)

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