Conducting polymers are not just conducting: a perspective for emerging technology

Conducting polymers, such as polyaniline and polypyrrole, are organic semiconductors with mixed electronic and ionic conductivity. In addition to electrical properties, their electrochemical activity opens research opportunities in corrosion protection or energy-storage devices. Conducting polymers are active in catalysis, the photocatalytic decomposition of dyes or electrocatalysts in fuel cells being examples. In contrast to classical polymers, conducting polymers respond to various stimuli by changes in conductivity, colour or other physicochemical parameters; this is used in sensors. Conducting polymers are good adsorbents of organic pollutants in wastewater treatment and are likely to be applicable for environmental issues. The perspectives of these polymers are briefly outlined. (c) 2019 Society of Chemical Industry