Composites of intrinsically conducting polymers as sensing nanomaterials

Intrinsically conducting polymers (ICPs) or organic semiconductors, are polymers with a delocalized π-electron system with an intrinsic wide band gap that defines thei affinity for electrons. Being a capable candidate for developing chemical or electrochemical sensors, the electronic conductivity is modulated by the interaction with various analytes resulting in changes in parameters such as resistance, current o electrochemical potential function. Such interaction introduces changes in the physiochemcial properties resulting from structural reorganization of the polymer chains. By means of doping, charge carriers are introduced into the polymer and is accomplished either by chemical, electrochemical or optical means. The conductive polymers have advantageous morphological and structual properties that are critical to the sensitivity and selectivity of gas or ion sensors. They find uses for both ion-to-electron transducers and sensing membranes in solid-state ion-selective electrodes.