In situ preparation of conducting polymer nanocomposites

This chapter focuses on the conducting nanocomposites prepared via in situ polymerization or in situ processing methods. It summarizes the recent progress in in situ preparation of electrically conductive polymer nanocomposites. The chapter discusses the structure-property relationships of the nanocomposites and underlines the benefits of the in situ processes. A general introduction to electrically conductive polymer nanocomposites is given. The chapter further talks about in situ polymerization of polymers in the presence of conductive nanofillers. It reviews the in situ nanocomposite formation methods, by which the formation of the continuous polymer phase is accompanied by a sharp increase in electrical conductivity of the fillers. The chapter concludes with discussion on the future outlook for in situ preparation of electrically conductive polymer nanocomposites.