‘Bridge’ effect of CdS nanoparticles in the interface of graphene–polyaniline composites

Abstract

A facile method for preparing graphene–polyaniline composite is proposed without the necessity of using graphene oxide. By adding CdS nanoparticles into the in situ polymerization system consisting of graphene and aniline monomers, a graphene–polyaniline composite with a well-bonded interface is yielded. It is found that the nano-CdS particles act as a ‘bridge’, connecting (i) PANI via the electrostatic force of attraction between the electron clouds of the sulfur and nitrogen atoms and (ii) graphene by π–π stacking. Taking advantage of the effective interfacial interactions, a large enhancement (∼400%) of the photoelectronic performance in the composite is observed. The work opens up a path for maintaining the original structure and properties of graphene during graphene–polymer composite manufacturing.