Synthesis of polyaniline/TiO2 hybrid nanoplates via a sol–gel chemical method

Polyaniline/TiO2 hybrid nanoplates were synthesized via a sol–gel chemical method. We added TiO2 nanocrystallites of 3–5 nm in diameter to the chemical polymerization of aniline. The loading ratio of TiO2 nanocrystallites to polyaniline altered the morphology of the hybrids from plate-like grains to aggregates. The cyclic voltammetry on the obtained hybrid material revealed that the plate-like structure was more advantageous for the electrochemical stability. The chemical bonding established between polyaniline and TiO2, confirmed by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, is likely to be responsible for the enhanced chemical stability.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Polyaniline/TiO2 hybrid nanoplates are synthesized via a sol–gel chemical method. ► The morphology of hybrids changes from plate like grains to aggregates. ► The strong interfacial interaction between polyaniline and TiO2 nanocrystallites is confirmed. ► The strong interaction results in better electrochemical stability.