Microstructure-mechanical properties relationship in conducting polypyrrole films

In this paper, the microstructures of electrochemically synthesized conducting polypyrrole (PPy) films were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEW It was found that the polymer film growth condition has strong effects on mechanical properties of the polymer film. The relationship between mechanical properties (such as tensile strength and brittle-tough properties) and the microstructures of PPy films was described for the first time. The effect of electrochemical polymerization condition including temperature and electrolyte composition on the strength and brittle-tough properties was also studied. Films deposited both on the surface of the anode facing the counter electrode and on the back surface were characterized. In order to improve the mechanical properties of PPy films, an optimal condition of electrochemical synthesis of conducting PPy films has been recommended. (C) 2002 Kluwer Academic Publishers.