| abstract |
Hybrid materials are formed having a homogeneous distribution of a conductive organic polymer or copolymer in an inorganic matrix. The conductive organic polymer may be electronically conductive, e.g., polyaniline, or may be ionically conductive, e.g., sulfonated polystyrene. The inorganic matrix is formed as a result of sol-gel chemistry, e.g., by the hydrolysis and condensation of tetraethyl orthosilicate and trialkoxysilyl groups in the organic polymers. A homogeneous distribution of organic polymer in the inorganic matrix is achieved by preparing separate solutions of organic polymer and sol-gel monomer, and then combining those solutions with a catalyst and stirring, to form a homogeneous clear solution. Upon evaporation of the solvent and other volatiles, a monolithic hybrid material may be formed. The combination of conductive organic polymer in an inorganic matrix provides desirable adhesion properties to an inorganic substrate while maintaining the conductivity of the organic polymer. |