Synthesis and Characterization of a Fluid-Like Novel Aniline Pentamer

A fluid-like novel aniline pentamer was synthesized by oxidative coupling and chemically doped with nonylphenol polyoxyethylene ether sulfate (NPES). The chemical structure, morphology, rheological behavior and conductivity of the assynthesized aniline pentamer were investigated. Unlike conventional aniline oligomers, this aniline pentamer exhibited a fluid-like behavior in the absence of any solvent at room temperature. Moreover, the aniline pentamer fluid showed liquid crystal characteristics. Combination of the fluid-like behavior, liquid crystal characteristics and good conductivity makes the aniline pentamer a promising environmentally friendly fluid for various applications such as field-effect transistors, liquid crystal devices, electrorheological materials, corrosion protection and other devices requiring electroactivity. This work provides a facile way to synthesizing flowable aniline oligomers with liquid crystal characteristics.