Whelk‐like Helixes of Polypyrrole Synthesized by Electropolymerization

Abstract A whelk‐like helix of polypyrrole was synthesized by an electropolymerization process. Its structure and properties were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and cyclic voltammetry. The high‐resolution SEM images clearly show the whorls around the polypyrrole whelk body; these whorls have ordered periodic nanostructures on their surface. XPS analysis indicates that the polypyrrole structure is highly doped with sodium dodecyl sulfate, the chosen dopant. A novel spiral growth mechanism is proposed. The whelk‐like polypyrrole layer shows high thermal stability, superhydrophilicity, and strong electrocatalytic activity towards the oxidation of ascorbic acid.