Abstract
A method for direct functionalization of polyaniline and other molecules with at least one diiminoquinoid ring through C--C bond formation is described. Fluoride ion, or a weak base whose conjugated acid form has a pK.sub.a value of 1-10, is used as a catalyst to react the molecule with an organic compound that has an abstractable proton directly bonded to the target carbon atom thereof to be bonded to the diiminoquinoid ring and has a pKa value less than 30 for the abstractable proton.