Microstructure formation in polymer composites prepared with polypropylene and a polyaniline complex

BACKGROUND: Results of a feasibility study to produce elongated structures of an electro‐conductive polyaniline complex (PANICOM) within polymer composites by means of an in situ deformation process are reported. The aim was to find an alternative route to produce fiber‐like polymer materials with potential applications in electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. PANICOM–polypropylene blends with PANICOM contents ranging from 1 to 50 wt% were capillary extruded. The microstructure was analyzed using optical and scanning electron microscopy. Conductivity measurements were carried out. Tensile mechanical properties were also characterized. RESULTS: PANICOM was deformed into elongated structures, embedded within the polypropylene, preferentially oriented in the extrusion direction. The highest conductivity levels were reached for PANICOM contents of 15 wt% and greater. For contents of PANICOM of about 5 to 10 wt%, the conductivities lay within the optimal ESD range, and the breaking tenacity was only about 25% lower than that of pure polypropylene. CONCLUSION: The results obtained provide further evidence to support the feasibility of producing electrically conductive fibers of PANICOM within a suitable polymer matrix by means of a simple in situ deformation process, so as to allow the fabrication of conducting composites with potential applications in ESD protection. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry