Core–shell polypyrrole nanoparticles obtained by atmospheric pressure plasma polymerization

Abstract

Abstract Polypyrrole hollow nanoparticles were prepared by atmospheric pressure plasma polymerization. The structure of the nanoparticles was studied using Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopies, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning and transmission electron microscopies and atomic force microscopy. In contrast to low‐pressure plasma polymerization of pyrrole, which can produce films and solid nanoparticles, we obtained two types of hollow nanoparticles: a fraction with single spherical core and another with a core composed of small bubbles. Thermal characterization allowed us to determine that the nanoparticles are composed of highly crosslinked polymer. A mechanism that explains the formation of both types of hollow nanoparticles as well as solid nanoparticles is proposed. Chemical characterization shows that, in addition to the expected chemical structures due to pyrrole polymerization, the high energy of the plasma at atmospheric pressure produces intense dehydrogenation and oxidation processes. The fluorescence spectrum of the nanoparticles, however, shows a peak at 482 nm indicating that some degree of π ‐conjugation is present in the material. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry