Effective purification of single-walled carbon nanotubes with reversible noncovalent functionalization.
An effective purification method for single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) based on a combination of oxidative acid treatment and reversible noncovalent functionalization with 1-pyreneacetic acid is reported. The functionalization was selective toward the nanotubes, allowing a nearly complete removal of residual metal catalysts and carbonaceous impurities. The resulting highly pure SWNTs remained solvent-dispersible, a valuable feature to potential applications that require solvent-based processing. The functionalization agent could be recovered quantitatively and reused. Effects of the purification process on the composition and properties of the nanotube sample were evaluated.
Lu
Fushen
F
Department of Chemistry and Laboratory for Emerging Materials and Technology, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina 29634-0973, USA.
Wang
Xin
X
Meziani
Mohammed J
MJ
Cao
Li
L
Tian
Leilei
L
Bloodgood
Matthew A
MA
Robinson
Jackie
J
Sun
Ya-Ping
YP
D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon / Q000737:chemistry*; D010316:Particle Size; D011721:Pyrenes; D013499:Surface Properties
C551339:1-pyreneacetic acid; D037742:Nanotubes, Carbon; D011721:Pyrenes