Streaming potential-driven bipolar electrodes can achieve the oxidative electropolymerization of aromatic monomers without the need for an electric power supply. Herein, various electrolytes and fillers are investigated to generate higher streaming potentials. As a result, the monomer scope is extended compared to that of the prototype system.

Bipolar electrode (BPE) systems have been attracting increasing attention owing to their cost-effectiveness and wireless design. Recently, the concept of streaming potential-driven BPEs for the oxidative electropolymerization of aromatic monomers without the need for an electric power supply is reported. However, the previous system, which used cotton as a filler material, had limitations in inducing suitable potential differences and charge amounts. Herein, various electrolytes and filling materials for flow cells are investigated for generating streaming potential. The results demonstrate that the use of bicontinuous porous filler materials and electrolytes containing ammonium cations and small anions effectively induces high streaming potential values. Consequently, the monomer scope of the electropolymerization method is extended compared to that of the prototype cell. In addition, a divided flow cell is developed to overcome the limitations of the available reaction.