Redox-assisted hydrogen bonding within interpenetrating conducting polymer networks for charge-storage materials

An interpenetrating conducting polymer composite based on poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) and poly(1,5-diaminoanthraquinone) (PDAAQ), prepared by sequential electropolymerization, is proposed as the first member of a new class of n-dopable π-conjugated materials able to store negative charge. The Lewis acidity of oxidized PEDOT allows electrodeposition of PDAAQ within this matrix without adding a protic acid. The negative charge-storage ability is a function of redox-assisted hydrogen bonding within the composite. This is due to intramolecular hydrogen bonding between the quinone groups of PDAAQ and the oxidized PEDOT. The material obtained displays good stability in oxygen-free acetonitrile. The use of PEDOT as a host matrix may lead to the elaboration of tailored interpenetrating electroactive materials based on conducting polymers as organic charge-storage electrodes for energy applications.

► We electrodeposited interpenetrating conducting polymers PEDOT–PDAAQ.
► The composite contains a Lewis acid (PEDOT) and a Lewis base (PDAAQ).
► Electroactivity of the PDAAQ quinone groups is tuned by the PEDOT doping level.
► Hydrogen bonds stabilize the quinone groups and increase their reduction potential.
► The composite is able to store negative charge with good stability and cyclability.