Molecular Composites Created by the Solution Blending of Polyaniline and Sulfonated Poly(Ether Sulfone)

New conducting thermally stable blends of polyaniline (PANi) with sulfonated poly(ether sulfone) as a matrix were prepared by a solution-blending method. Camphorsulfonic acid (CSA) was used as a protonic agent for PANi. A sulfonyl group was introduced into the poly(ether sulfone) to enhance the coulomb interaction among the blends. The influence of the sulfonated group in poly(ether sulfone) was monitored with electrical property measurements. Ultraviolet visible spectra of the blend compositions showed a well-developed polaron band. The compatibility of the blends, that is, hydrogen bonding and dispersion at the molecular level, was ascertained with X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy; these supported intermolecular interaction. A smooth and uniform morphology was observed in the blends. The electrical conductivity of the blends increased up to 14 S/cm with the protonation of the PANi complex with CSA, and the percolation threshold was found to be 2 wt % PANi. These new blends showed increases in conductivity and compatibility over other PANi poly(ether sulfone) blends. (C) 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 120: 1138-1144, 2011