Abstract:The polypyrrole, in its intrinsically conducting form, can be used to prepare composites such as polypyrrole/polyester textiles by coating yarns or fabrics made of polyester. In this manner, we obtain textiles that can be involved in several applications, among which we find the use of textiles in electromagnetic shielding. However, several other uses of polypyrrole/polyester composites are possible, such as in biomedical applications. Here we propose a survey of the literature about these composites.
Keywords: Textiles, Polypyrrole, Intrinsically Conducting Polymers, Electromagnetic shielding
IntroductionWhen opportunely processed, the polypyrrole becomes an intrinsically conducting polymer. This material can be used to prepare polypyrrole/polyester textile composites, by coating yarns or fabrics made of polyester. In this manner we obtain textiles that can be used for several applications. Two of them are the electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and the radiation-absorbent camouflage [1][2][3][4][5]. Materials for EMI shielding are needed due to the interference of radio frequency and microwave devices with computers, transformers, cables, mobile phones, medical devices, and also for the effect of the radiation on human health. Applications of textiles is therefore required for the shielding of persons, devices or large volumes such as those of an entire room. In the case that textiles are applied as radiation-absorbent materials they can be used in stealth technology, to disguise devices or structures from radar detection. Other applications of the polypyrrole/polyester fibres and fabrics are possible, in particular in the biomedical area.