Whelk-like helixes of polypyrrole synthesized by electropolymerization

A whelk-like helix of polypyrrole was synthesized by an electropolymerization process. Its structure and properties were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and cyclic voltammetry. The high-resolution SEM images clearly show the whorls around the polypyrrole whelk body; these whorls have ordered periodic nanostructures on their surface. XPS analysis indicates that the polypyrrole structure is highly doped with sodium dodecyl sulfate, the chosen dopant. A novel spiral growth mechanism is proposed. The whelk-like polypyrrole layer shows high thermal stability, superhydrophilicity, and strong electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of ascorbic acid.