Vapor Phase Synthesis of Conducting Polymer Nanocomposites Incorporating 2D Nanoparticles

Abstract

The one step fabrication of nanocomposite films of conducting polymers with 2D nanoparticles is investigated in this study. Specifically, the inclusion of nanomaterials (single layer graphene, single layer molybdenum disulfide) within PEDOT is achieved using the vapor phase polymerization (VPP) technique. This facile process allows for the formation of thin films of the order of less than 200 nm, which display a wide range of enhanced properties (mechanical, optical, and electrochemical). Herein, in a typical example with added graphene (<0.003% w/w), the in-plane modulus of the film is increased to 145 GPa (ca. 65% increase above PEDOT−Tos) without any decrease in light transmission or lowering of conductivity. Furthermore, the nanocomposite outperforms both the PEDOT−Tos film and a Pt substrate in the reduction of oxygen when acting as an air-electrode.

Enhanced electrical, mechanical and thermal properties by exfoliating graphene platelets of larger lateral dimensions

“…For instance, the presence of residual water molecules will enhance charge trapping at the interface with dielectrics [43]. Likewise, graphene nanocomposites with polymers allow diverse applications in devices and sensors [32,[44][45][46], but water has to be removed to prepare nanocomposite with water-insoluble polymers. A few works focus on transferring GO/rGO into organic solvents with some additives [47,48].…”

Stable Deep Doping of Vapor‐Phase Polymerized Poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/Ionic Liquid Supercapacitors

“…Beyond doped PEDOT, the VPP process affords the opportunity to incorporate other materials within the film. For example, polymers, triblock copolymers, and 2 D nanomaterials can be embedded within the polymer thin film to lead to enhanced properties such as electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and electrocatalytic efficiency …”

A benzoxazine surfactant exchange for atomic force microscopy characterization of two dimensional materials exfoliated in aqueous surfactant solutions

“…For example, Pluronic® surfactants were used to produce graphene with high concentration and could be used for hydrogel preparation of graphene or thin lm depositions. 22,[27][28][29] Tween 20 could be used to stabilize graphene for preparing biocompatible graphene paper material. 30 Different ionic surfactants were found having different effects on transporting of graphene through porous media.…”