Self-assembled multilayer films based on a Keggin-type polyoxometalate and polyaniline

Abstract Multilayer ultrathin films were fabricated from partially doped polyaniline (PAN) and a Keggin-type polyoxometalate [ α -SiW 12 O 40 ] 4− ( α -SiW 12 ) in aqueous solution via the layer-by-layer self-assembly technique and characterized by UV–vis, FTIR, and X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS), ellipsometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). UV–vis spectroscopy shows that the absorbance values at characteristic wavelengths of the multilayer films increase almost linearly with the number of PAN/ α -SiW 12 bilayers, suggesting that the deposition process is regular and highly reproducible from layer to layer. FTIR and XPS spectra confirm the incorporation of α -SiW 12 and PAN into the films. Ellipsometric measurements show that the PAN/ α -SiW 12 bilayer thickness increases with the increasing PAN solution concentration. SEM and AFM images indicate that the film surface is relatively uniform and smooth. In addition, the electrical conductivities of the multilayer films doped with hydrochloric acid were also measured.