Photovoltaic and Catalytic Activity of Plasma-Polymerized Phthalocyanine Films

Abstract
Polymeric metal (Cu, Mg, Zn, and Ni) and metal-free phthalocyanine thin films were prepared from the gas phase by low-temperature plasma polymerization. Electronic and FT-IR spectra indicated that no extensive alteration or destruction of the original ring structure had occurred. The obtained film showed good rectification, photovoltaic, and electro-chromic effects. The film also reduced methyl viologen under visible light, and its catalytic activity was as high as that of monomeric phthalocyanine particles. The formation mechanism and properties of the polymeric phthalocyanine films are discussed briefly.