Synthesis, characterization and stability of chitosan and poly(methyl methacrylate) grafted carbon nanotubes

The single walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were effectively functionalized through grafting with chitosan (CTS) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). Prior to grafting reaction, the carboxylated SWNCTs (SWNCTs–COOH) were obtained by treating pristine CNTs with a mixture of 3:1 (v/v) H2SO4 and HNO3, and the successive treatment of SWNCTs–COOH with SOCl2 yielded the acylated CNTs (CNTs–COCl). The functionalized derivatives of CNTs were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Both CTS and PMMA grafted CNTs showed better dispersability in acetic acid and tetrahydrofuran, in addition to higher stability in solution.

The carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were effectively functionalized through grafting with chitosan (CTS) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). The functionalized derivatives of CNTs were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Effective functionalization of CNTs through grafting of CTS and PMMA.
► CTS and PMMA grafted CNTs are well dispersible.
► Partial alignment of functionalized CNTs was achieved through reported method.
► Effective functionalization was revealed using atomic force microscopy.