Synthesis and properties of latex particles with polyaniline shells

Abstract

Core–shell polyaniline–latex particles have been obtained via oxidative polymerization of aniline hydrochloride in the presence of charged polystyrene latex. The polymerization conditions have been determined under which polyaniline is predominantly formed on the surface of latex particles to yield closed shells. The dependence of the electrical conductivity of the resulting particles on the initial concentration of aniline hydrochloride in the polymerization medium has been studied. Stable aqueous dispersions of polyaniline–latex particles have been prepared by modifying the particles with sodium 3-mercaptopropane sulfonate.