Fabrication of network films of conducting polymer-linked polyoxometallate-stabilized carbon nanostructures

The ability of a Keggin-type polyoxometallate, phosphododecamolybdate (PMo12O403−), to form stable anionic monolayers on carbon nanoparticles and multi-wall nanotubes is explored here to produce stable colloidal solutions of polyoxometallate covered carbon nanostructures and to disperse them within conducting polymer, poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), i.e. PEDOT, or polyaniline multilayer films. By repeated alternate treatments in the colloidal suspension of PMo12O403−-protected carbon nanoparticles or nanotubes, and in the acid solution of a monomer (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene or aniline), the amount of the material can be increased systematically (layer-by-layer) to form stable three-dimensional organized arrangements (networks) of interconnected organic and inorganic layers on electrode (e.g. glassy carbon) surfaces. In hybrid films, the negatively charged polyoxometallate-covered carbon nanostructures interact electrostatically with positively charged conducting polymer ultra-thin layers. Consequently, the attractive electrochemical charging properties of conducting polymers, reversible redox behavior of polyoxometallate, as well as the mechanical and electrical properties of carbon nanoparticles or nanotubes can be combined. The films are characterized by fast dynamics of charge transport, and they are of potential importance to electrocatalysis and charge storage in redox capacitors.