Investigating Nanoscale Morphology and Conductivity in a PEDOT:PSS and Au Nanoparticle System

Solution-processed inorganic/organic nanocomposites are strong candidates for inexpensive and scalable thermoelectric and capacitive energy storage materials. Such nanocomposites are of particular interest due to their large interface area, which can potentially be tuned to optimize desirable properties. However, the role of the interface on charge transport is neglected by standard series and parallel conduction models, limiting opportunities for improving material performance. We investigate a system of Au nanoparticles and the conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS to better understand the role of interfaces and nanostructure on charge transport. We present measurements of the morphology and nanoscale conductivity of samples of varying Au and polymer fraction using tapping and conductive AFM, and explore the role of the interfaces on the bulk material impedance.