Ionic liquid–modified conductive polymer composites: a route to high-permittivity, Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) - safe materials

Imidazolium-based ionic liquids (ILs) with different counter anions (Br⁻, BF₄⁻, PF₆⁻) were synthesized through quaternization and ion-exchange methods to explore their role as functional dopants in hybrid conducting composites. These ILs were incorporated into polyaniline (PANI) and graphite (Gr) matrices to form IL–PANI and IL–Gr nanocomposites. Comprehensive characterization—including FTIR, TEM, and TGA confirmed successful integration and structural uniformity. Dielectric spectroscopy and electrical conductivity measurements demonstrated tunable properties across a wide frequency range, with conductivity values spanning 10⁻⁹ to 10⁻5 S/cm, ideal for electrostatic discharge (ESD)-safe applications. The materials also exhibited high thermal stability and enhanced interfacial polarization, attributed to counter anion-dependent structuring within the composite matrix. These results position IL-modified PANI/Gr systems as promising candidates for antistatic coatings, flexible printed electronics, and next-generation high-k dielectric components. The approach offers a scalable strategy to engineer multifunctional composites with tailored electrical properties for use in advanced energy and electronic applications.