Electrically conducting polymers

Of the known systems, only AsF5-treated graphite appears to have a conductivity high enough to compete with metals in lightweight wiring. Attention is also given to other properties of polymers that offer technological advantages. The electroactive properties of the polypyrroles and (CH)x are explored, and it is shown that these materials can be repeatedly electrically switched between the metallic and the insulating states - a change that can be followed optically as well as electrically. It is also pointed out that the metallic properties of conducting polymers allow them to be used as electrode materials. In view of the magnitude of the conductivities of known conducting polymers, it is clear that these materials will not displace copper or the classical metals. Their usefulness will probably derive from a blend of their electronic, mechanical, and processing characteristics.