Intrinsically Conducting Polymers: An Emerging Technology

The subject of "Intrinsically Conducting Polymers: an Emerging Technology" was addressed at the NATO Advanced Research Workshop held in Burlington, Vermont, USA in October 1992. Approximately 30 invited scientists from 11 different countries attended the workshop and 24 lectures were given, discussing in detail important processing techniques and applications of conducting polymers, along with the basic materials science aspects. This work was the result. It addresses progress in materials science related to polymers presently on the market, and to already existing, as well as future applications. It covers existing and future applications of intrinsically conducting polymers. Among these applications are the redox-type, such as batteries and electrochemical actuators and artificial muscles. Topics covered include capacitors, microlithography and transistor uses; the use of conducting polymers as "smart" materials in sensor/indicator types of applications; ESD applications and EMI shielding; Microwave properties for radar/microwave absorption and for plastics joining/welding; and materials processing for the various applications, including fabrication of fibres, textiles, colloids and films/coatings.