Preparation and Electrochemical Testing of Polyaniline (PANI) Nanoparticles with Uniform Morphology and Good Dispersion in a Water-task-specific Ionic Liquid Medium

Abstract

Polyaniline (PANI) nanoparticles with uniform morphology and good dispersion were prepared by using the task-specific Ionic Liquid (IL) 1-ester-3-methyl-imidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([EAMIM]BF4) as a soft template by chemical oxidation in a water-IL medium. The morphological, structural and electronic properties of polyaniline (PANI) products, controlled by the IL [EAMIM]BF4, were synthesized and investigated. Products were characterized by SEM, FT-IR and the measurements of conductivity. The addition of [EAMIM]BF4 strongly influenced the morphology, uniformity, and conductivity of the PANI. Depending on the [EAMIM]BF4:ANI ratio, various nanostructures of PANI could be prepared and the dominant morphologies are the rod-like and fiber-like elongated structures under most experimental conditions. Samples prepared in the presence of IL [EAMIM]BF4 show uniform morphology, good dispersion and good electrochemical performance. At the current density of 0.5 A/g, the specific capacitance of PANI was 396 F.g-1. Compared with the PANI without ionic liquids, the specific capacitance was increased by 165 F.g-1. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ms.25.3.19145