Synthesis, Characterization, and Photoconductivity Studies on Poly(2-chloroaniline) and Poly(2-chloroaniline)/CuO Nanocomposites

The poly(2-chloroaniline) and poly(2-chloroaniline)/CuO nanocomposites with various weight percentages (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, and 25%) were synthesized by in situ chemical oxidative polymerization method using ammonium per sulphate (oxidant), HCl (dopant), and dodecyl benzene sulphonic acid as a surfactant at 0°C. The formation of polymer and its composites was confirmed by FTIR and UV-Visible spectroscopy. The SEM and X-ray diffraction studies clearly indicate the uniform dispersion of CuO nanoparticles into the polymer matrix. The thermal stability of the polymer and its composites increased with increase in the percentage of CuO nanoparticles. The polymer and composites exhibit fluorescence property and hence can be used in the light emitting diodes. The current voltage (I-V) curves clearly illustrate the enhanced conductivity on light exposure compared to the dark current. The conductivity of the polymer increased with increase in the percentage of CuO nanoparticles. Poly(2-chloroaniline)/CuO nanocomposites with 25% of CuO show a maximum conductivity of 2.05×10-4 S cm−1. The composites synthesized behave as organic metals due to their semiconducting nature