Electrosynthesis of hollow polypyrrole microtubes with a rectangular cross-section

We present results on the electrosynthesis of hollow rectangular microtubes of polypyrrole from neutral and alkaline solutions of salicylate. The electroactive films were prepared by electropolymerization of pyrrole on stainless steel substrate at a constant potential. The growth process of microtubes was studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Deposition parameters such as salicylate concentration, monomer concentration, solution pH and electrode rotation have significant effects on the morphology of deposits. A plausible explanation for the occurrence of rectangular-sectioned microtubes is given.

Research Highlights
► Hollow polypyrrole microtubes with rectangular cross-section were electrodeposited.
► The electrosynthesis was carried out in neutral and alkaline solutions of salicylate.
► The synthesis requires a high salicylate concentration in a stagnant solution.