A conducting polymer was synthesized from polypyrolle doped with paratoluenesulfonate (p-TS) using electrochemical deposition technique to find a substitute for metal electrodes in EMF sources. Samples were produced with varying p-TS molarity, specifically 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2 M. Initial characterization of samples was done using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) for surface analysis, and the Energy Dispersive X-ray system (EDX) for elemental analysis. Surface analysis of thin sheets was observed to be fibrillar, while thick samples had globular surface. Traces of Nitrogen, Carbon, Oxygen and Sulfur in decreasing order of concentration, were detected in the EDX system, showing potential as conducting material.
To determine potential as EMF source, samples were subjected to Van der Pauw Measurement. Conductivity was found to be within 20 to 200 siemens, resulting in a computed resistivity of 0.05 to 0.005 ohms. These values are comparable to those of certain conductors such as copper. When used in a chemical cell with copper and zinc sulfate solution, the EMF produced was between 1 to 1.5 volts. This showed that the p-TS-doped polypyrolle is a good conductor and could be a possible electrode of a battery. Thermal analysis yielded a peak of endothermic reaction at 350ºCelsius. Degradation point was at 770 degrees celsius. The sodium para-toluenesulfonate-doped polypyrolle opens the prospect of creating lightweight batteries, since they are approximately 80% lighter than common metal electrodes used in EMF sources. This progress signals a breakthrough in plastic electronics.
Materials & Equipment
Further clarification of the procedures and results should be directed to the researchers and adviser.
Researchers:
Mariel Chavez
Adviser:
Dr. Helen E. Caintic
PSHS-Main