Temperature-regulated morphology and electrical conductivity of nano tungsten carbide reinforced polyindole composites

Polyindole (PIn) nanocomposites (PNCs) at different wt % of tungsten carbide (WC) were prepared and characterized through various spectral, thermal and electrical methods. Formation of PNCs was ascertained through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectra and simultaneous thermogravimetric-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTA-DTG). PNCs with 15 wt % of WC has shown improved thermo-oxidative stability with TG onset at 200 degrees C and was decomposed to maximum at 340.2 mu g/degrees C at 465 degrees C with DTA peak temperature at 458 degrees C. Electrodes were fabricated through deposition of PNCs over iron plate in presence of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) binder and investigated for DC conductance during their baking in the range of 50 degrees C. Microstructural variations during the backing of electrodes was monitored through SEM. Electrodes have shown linear current/potential (I/V) relationship with rise in electrical conductivity wt % of WC, applied voltage, temperatures and time. Eelectrodes derived from PNCs with 15 wt % of WC has shown electrical percolation threshold with intact morphology at 6 h at 50 degrees C. Present study reveals the synthesis of electrically conducting PNCs that withstand up to 200 degrees C and may serve as future as electrode materials in presence of potential polymeric binders for electronic and electrochemical applications. [GRAPHICS] .