An environmentally sensitive three-component hybrid microgel

Abstract

A new multifunctional microcomposite has been synthesized. It is sensitive to several medium parameters, such as temperature, pH and ionic strength, is electroactive and conductive and can be easily attached to gold surfaces. All these properties were cumulated in one microcomposite by combining three components: poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) crosslinked with N,N′-bisacryloylcystine (p(NIPA–BISS) microgel), polyaniline nanofibers and gold nanoparticles. The presence of the polyaniline nanofibers and gold nanoparticles in the composite particles led to a substantial increase in conductivity and electroactivity. Additionally, the transition from the swollen to the collapsed state further enhanced the electroactivity and conductivity of the microcomposite. The structure, morphology and swelling behavior of the microgels were investigated using SEM, TEM, TGA, DLS and Raman spectroscopy. The electrocatalytic properties of the microcomposite towards oxidation of ethanol were also found.