Preparation of Nano-Structured Polyaniline Composite Film via "Carbon Nanotubes Seeding" Approach and its Gas-Response Studies

Polyaniline composite film with nano‐structure was prepared through a chemical oxidation method by adding carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as nano‐fiber seeds. Spin‐coating or casting method was employed on the interdigital electrodes of carbon and the composite film was formed with an in‐situ polymerization approach. The gas‐response to trimethylamine was also examined at room temperature. It was found that the difference was not only in the morphology, but also in the value of gas‐sensitivity. Comparing with films without the CNTs, the value of gas‐sensitivity decreased dramatically, while the baseline current of the sensor increased remarkably. This method can be an effective way to adjust the gas‐sensitivity of sensors made from polyaniline composite film by adding a small amount of carbon nanotube. XRD data showed that the degree of orientation of polyaniline was increased greatly with the addition of CNTs. Morphology and reproducibility (inset) of polyaniline composite film containing carbon nanotubes.