Polypyrrole nanostructures and their thermoelectric performance

Abstract

Controlled synthesis of various nanostructures of polypyrrole (PPy) and their thermoelectric performances have been reported. First, the controlled synthesis and morphological characterization of PPy nanostructures are systematically studied by adjusting the experimental parameters. The effects of oxidant type, oxidant concentration, polymerization period as well as reaction medium are examined. Then, the thermoelectric performances of the as-obtained PPy nanostructures are measured in detail. Finally, the level of doping is calculated by X-ray photoelectron spectra. The relation between PPy nanostructures and their thermoelectric performances has been discussed. The present study will benefit the development of novel organic thermoelectric materials by a morphological design strategy, will deepen our understanding towards structure–thermoelectric function relationship, and will be helpful for the future application of organic polymer thermoelectric materials.