Synthesis, characterisation and electric properties of polythiophene composites with various amphoteric oxides

The present paper involves the synthesis of polythiophene (PTP) composites with different amphoteric oxides via in situ oxidative polymerisation procedure. These composites were characterised by Fourier transform infrared, X-ray diffraction and SEM, which proves the successful chemical synthesis of PTP and its composites. Fourier transform infrared absorption peaks confirm the insertion of oxides in the backbone of PTP. Thermal analysis shows no change in thermal stability, unlike composites of PTP with other metal oxides, and hence rules out the application of these composites for higher temperature purposes. However, the composite materials have shown stability up to 200 degrees C which ensures their use in low temperature applications. Both the oxides have changed the electrical conductivity of PTP. Polythiophene prepared which was found to be insulator initially has shown significant conductivity after doping with two amphoteric oxides. Sb2O3 has proven to be a better dopant for improving the conductivity as compared to TeO2.