Nano-silver mediated polymerization of pyrrole: synthesis and gas sensing properties of polypyrrole (PPy)/Ag nano-composite.

Thermal polymerization of pyrrole was performed using silver nitrate as source of silver ions followed by its conversion to Polypyrrole (PPy)/Ag nano-comoposites without using any external oxidizing agent or solvent. The formation of PPy was monitored by UV-Visible absorption spectroscopy showing a band at approximately 464 nm. XRD measurement confirmed characteristic peaks for face centered cubic (fcc) silver and presence of PPy at 2 theta of approximately 23 degrees suggesting the formation of PPy/Ag nanocomposite. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed non-aggregated spherical Ag nano-particles of about 5-10 nm. PPy/Ag thick film acts as a NH3 sensor at 100 degrees C, a H2S sensor at 250 degrees C and CO2 sensor at 350 degrees C. The thick films showed capability to recognize various gases at different operating temperature.