Optimum reaction conditions for the polymerization of aniline in aqueous solution by ammonium persulphate

The polymerization of aniline by persulphate anion in aqueous solution was studied as a function of oxidant/monomer initial mole ratio (r). For values of r less than ∼ 1.15, the conductivity, yield, elemental composition and degree of oxidation of the resulting polyaniline product are essentially independent of r. However, higher oxidant/monomer initial mole ratios result in over-oxidation of the polyaniline, with a concomitant decrease in conductivity and yield.