Conducting polymer films by UV-photo processing

In this paper the synthesis of polypyrrole (PPY) films by a novel photo-induced processing and the characterisation of the thin films by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), SEM, surface test instrument (WYKO NT2000) and optical microscopy are reported. As a comparison, the synthesis of PPY films by chemical oxidation was also carried out. The experimental results show that choosing suitable concentration of precursors, spin-rate for forming thin films and synthesis methods can control the thickness and microstructure of the PPY films. The processing selected plays an important role for controlling and designing quality of the PPY films. Ultraviolet (UV)-photo processing of PPY film consists of two stages: photo-polymerisation and surface modification. The latter is benefit for the application of PPY conducting polymers in gas sensors and membranes. A new mechanism of U-V-photo processing for polymerisation and surface modification of PPY was discussed. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.