Polyaniline (PANI) Nano-Composites with Se, Te and their metal chalcogenides: A Review

Abstract

Research over the past four decades has matured polyaniline and most preferred conducting polymers and several methods have been proposed by researchers for its synthesis and conversion to various forms of polyaniline (PANI) as well as its doping with chalcogens specially selenium (Se) and tellurium (Te) have been explored using various chemical methods and their different properties are extensively studied in terms of electrical, thermal, morphological and optical behaviour. This review summarizes, the results from research experiments, including their synthesis and characterization as well as study of various properties viz; DC conductivity measurements, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR), field emission studies, EMI shielding behaviour, electrochemical, supercapacitive, optoelectronic and thermoelectric properties. The incorporation of chalcogens into PANI leads to a significant improvement in electrical conductivity and field emission properties, making these nanocomposites promising materials for various electronic applications. The global energy crisis underscore the need for innovative materials for energy solutions. Solution-based polymer thermoelectric (TE) technologies offer an eco-friendly and cost-effective approach to convert heat into electricity. Successful electrodeposition of tellurium films onto phenolic foam with PANI coatings and the synthesis of a novel PANI/Te nanocomposite with enhanced nonlinear optical properties open up new avenues. These nano-composites were prepared using different methods, including simultaneous electrochemical reactions, in-situ polymerization, and interfacial polymerization.