Controlled synthesis, core–shell structures and electrochemical properties of polyaniline/polypyrrole composite nanofibers

Abstract

An efficient approach was presented to prepare composite nanofibers by in situ chemical polymerization of pyrrole in the presence of polyaniline (PANi) nanofibril seeds for integrating the excellent properties of PANi and polypyrrole (PPy). The effects of PPy shell thickness on the morphology, structure and properties of the composite nanofibers have been studied by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, wide angle X-ray diffractometry, thermal gravimetric analysis and electrochemical measurement. It is found that more planar conformation of PPy could be formed due to strong π–π interactions between the PANi core and the PPy shell. As a result, the efficient charge transport along the nanofiber orientation and charge transfer between the core and shell of the composite nanofibers can be facilitated. Furthermore, compared with neat PANi and PPy, great improvements in electrical and electrochemical properties for the composite nanofibers can be achieved due to their unique configuration and synergistic contribution.