Inkjet printable polyaniline nanoformulations

Aqueous polyaniline (PANI) nanodispersions doped with dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid (DBSA) were synthesized and successfully inkjet-printed using a piezoelectric desktop printer. This paper examines the optimization and characterization of the nanoparticulate formulation for optimal film electrochemistry and stability. PANI nanoparticle synthesis was optimized in terms of the ratio of monomer (aniline) to oxidant (ammonium persulphate, APS) and dopant (DBSA). Particle size, UV-vis spectroscopy, electrochemical, and conductivity analyses were performed on all materials. Optimal synthesis conditions were found to be at a molar ratio of 1.0:0.5:1.2 aniline/APS/DBSA. This resulting nanodispersion showed a uniform particle size distribution of similar to 82 nm, and UV-vis analysis indicated a high doping level. These synthetic conditions resulted in the highest conductivity, and the electrochemistry of the resulting films was well-defined and stable. Surface tension analysis and rheological studies demonstrated that the aqueous nanodispersions were suitable for inkjet printing. Successful inkjet printing of these polyaniline nanoparticulate formulations is demonstrated.