Interactions between polyaniline and viologens

The interactions between polyaniline (PANi) and viologen solutions were investigated. The changes in the structure of PANi were monitored using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and UV–VIS absorption spectroscopy. The results indicated that electron transfer from PANi to viologen occurs readily, resulting in the formation of positively charged nitrogen species in the PANi. This is accompanied by an increase in conductivity of the PANi, together with a transfer of halogen anions from the viologen to PANi. Dissolved oxygen appears to play an important role in these interactions.