Highly cross-linked, self-doped polyaniline exhibiting unprecedented hardness

The use of a latest method for the generation of a cross-linked, self-doped conducting polymer is discussed. It was observed that no fillers or other nonconducting cross-linking agents are required that will ultimately reduce connectivity. The method was demonstrated by self-cross-linking poly(anilineboronic acid) (PABA), which results in the creation of four-coordinates boron through the formation of a dative boron-imine bond. In addition to a retaining a significant degree of conductivity, the cross-linked PABA exhibited unprecented hardness, surpassing more common hard polymers.