Polymerization of pyrrole into track membranes

The kinetics of pyrrole (Py) polymerization onto polymeric track membranes and the morphology of obtained composite materials have been investigated. Diaphragmatic method was used. The rate of polymerization depends on the pore size of the membrane and there is an optimum pore size for which the initial polymerization rate is maximum. The appearance of the limiting yield is connected with the filling of the pores by PPy that leads to the formation of microtubules inside the pores. This was revealed by means of SEM study. During polymerization of Py the deposition of PPy occurs both on the pore walls and on the face surfaces of the membrane. The pore size gradually decreases during polymerization. The texture of PPy on the face surfaces and on the pore walls and the formation of microfibers connecting the neighbouring pores are discussed.