Electrochemical synthesis of micro/nanostructured poly(3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene) films with underwater superoleophobicity

Micro/nanostructured poly(3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene)(PEDOT) films were fabricated by an electrochemical polymerization in the presence of ionic liquid(1-hexyl-3methyllimidazolium bromide) as the electrolyte and dopants. The PEDOT films consist of micro-rod structures that encompass the micro-groove structure, and the nano-chain structure arranged inside of the micro-groove structure. The width of micro-grooves and the beads on the nano-chains can be adjusted by changing the current density of polymerization. The results showed that PEDOT chain backbone was doped by both the anion(Br^-) and cation(imidazolium) of ionic liquids. In addition, PEDOT film exhibited reversible electrochemical activity and underwater superoleophobic properties, which could be used for the application of the underwater anti-fouling coating and controlled oil-water separation materials.