“Synthetic metals”: A novel role for organic polymers

The synthesis and p‐ and n‐doping of polyacetylene, (CH) x , the prototype conducting polymer or “synthetic metal” is described together with a qualitative description of its band structure and changes in band structure on doping to yield positive and negative solitons. Other conducting polymers are briefly discussed. The polyanilines, a large class of versatile conducting polymers involving a novel non‐redox doping process, considered as being of significant commercial technological importance are discussed in particular with reference to their ease of processing. Present and future technological uses of conducting polymers are noted.