Spectroscopic studies on nanocomposites obtained by functionalization of carbon nanotubes with conducting polymers

Vibrational properties of composites based on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and conducting polymers of the type polyaniline (PANI) and poly (3,4-ethylene dioxythiophene) (PEDOT) are reported. For PANI-functionalized SWNTs, the intensity increase of the Raman band at 178 cm-1, associated with radial breathing modes of SWNTs bundles, indicates an additional roping of nanotubes due to the presence of the polymer. The interaction of this composite with NH4OH solution involves an internal redox reaction between PANI and SWNTs. Thus, the polymer chain undergoes a transition from the semi-oxidized state into a reduced one. The functionalization of SWNT side walls with PEDOT is invoked as well.