Crystallization induced block copolymer decoration on carbon nanotubes

A unique noncovalent means to decorate block copolymers on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using a controlled polymer crystallization method is presented. Transmission electron microscope observation and electron diffraction result demonstrated the surface functionalization of CNTs with a crystalline-noncrystalline triblock copolymer poly(vinylcyclohexane)-b-poly(ethylene)-b-poly(vinylcyclohexane) (PVCH-PE-PVCH), forming a novel nano-hybrid epitaxial brush structure, which consists of a central CNT and disc-shaped folded-chain lamellae of PE blocks with random coils of amorphous PVCH blocks surrounding them.