Core–shell electrospun fiber architecture used as a nanoreactor to synthesize conjugated polymers

Chemical reactions in a confined nanometer‐sized space can have a dramatic impact on conversion, reaction rate and macromolecular texture. In this work, the idea of synthesizing conjugated polymers (polyaniline, PANI) within the core of a core–shell submicron electrospun fiber was tested. To this end, acrylamide/acrylic acid solution containing ammonium persulfate was photopolymerized during electrospinning to prepare the shell of a core–shell electrospun fiber, while the core was produced based on an aniline‐rich solution. Polymerization of aniline occurred during the electrospinning through the contact of ammonium persulfate and aniline at the core of the newly formed fibers as observed by AFM electrical current mode and by Fourier transform infrared results that showed the presence of a highly doped and conductive emeraldine PANI. The ability of the shell of the fibers to swell in water and to lead to materials with low elastic modulus, as common hydrogels, was also detected through AFM images and indentation curves in water. © 2022 Society of Industrial Chemistry. The nanometric‐sized core of core–shell electrospun fibers was employed in the synthesis of conjugated polymers. A highly doped and conductive emeraldine polyaniline was produced within the core of a submicron electrospun fiber. A hydrogel‐type shell of a core–shell electrospun fiber was prepared and showed the swellability and softness typical of hydrogels.