Pickering emulsion polymerized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)/polystyrene composite particles and their electric stimuli-response

Abstract

We report a facile synthesis of Pickering emulsion polymerized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate)/polystyrene (PEDOT:PSS/PS) composite particles and their electro-responsive electrorheological (ER) characteristics when dispersed in silicone oil. The PEDOT:PSS particles act both as a solid surfactant for the Pickering emulsion polymerization and as an electro-responsive activator for PEDOT:PSS/PS composite particles. The morphology, chemical structure, and thermal properties of the synthesized PEDOT:PSS/PS composite particles were determined by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. Moreover, the formation of chain structures by the dispersed particles was confirmed directly by optical microscopy. The rheological response of PEDOT:PSS/PS-based ER fluid in the presence of an electric field, examined using a rotational rheometer, represented ER effects with typical Bingham fluid behavior.