Communication—Polyaniline Electrodeposition on Flexible ITO Substrates and the Effect of Curved Electrochemical Conditions

Abstract

Polyaniline (PANI) is a common electrically conducting polymer with numerous potential applications, including use in energy storage and electrochromic devices. In this communication, we describe the critical parameters for the deposition of PANI onto ITO-coated plastic, both under flat and curved conditions, and we explore the effects that the electrode curvature has on the electrochemical and electrochromic behavior of PANI. We found a simple water rinsing process after deposition was critical for good film adhesion and electrochemical activity. Additionally, PANI deposition and electrochemical performance was unaffected at a bending radius of 10 and 7.5 mm, but at 5 mm the electrochemical deposition was significantly impacted due to the strain on the underlying ITO.