Authors
Abstract
Self-standing polyaniline (Pani) films modified with gold nanoparticles (Au NP’s), where Au NP’s are added in different successive weight percents, have been synthesized by conventional chemical polymerization technique. An in-depth investigation of the structural and electrical characteristics of prepared films has been conducted using various characterizations. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) validates the presence of Au NP’s in Pani and the results are supported well by energy dispersive X-ray analyzer (EDX). The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) clearly shows thorough dispersion of Au NP’s in the amorphous host matrix with minor aggregation. The Fourier transform infrared red (FTIR) studies give the information of possible chemical interaction between the nanoparticles and polymer which is in good agreement with charge transfer mechanism proposed in the manuscript. The temperature dependent dc electrical conductivity has been observed to depend strongly on the nanoparticle loading and follows Mott’s three-dimensional variable range hopping (3D VRH) conduction mechanism. Parameters obtained from Hall Effect measurements are of same order as is calculated by dc measurements which indicates a very good corroboration of results. Higher ac conductivity, dielectric constant and dielectric loss of nanocomposites have also been observed as compared to that of pure Pani.
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