Dissolution and alkylation of industrially produced multi-walled carbon nanotubes

Industrial, CVD multi-walled carbon nanotubes are shown to form true solutions by reduction with alkali metals and subsequent exposure to polar solvents such as DMSO. Addition of an electrophile such as bromo-decanoic acid allows functionalization of the tubes. The whole process, dissolution and functionalization includes no harsh treatment such as acid treatment and/or sonication and allows to saturate the outer surface of the MWCNTs with functional groups. Comparison is made with previous work on single-walled carbon nanotubes.

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes form true solutions in DMSO via alkali metal reduction of the salts; they can then be alkylated, allowing for composites formulation.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights
► Alkali metal salts of multi-walled carbon nanotubes spontaneously dissolve in DMSO.
► Addition of an electrophile allows for full coverage of the outer surface.
► Mild process: no sonication, no acid treatment.