Volatile Organic Molecules Sorption onto Carbon Nanotubes: Experiment and Molecular Modeling

Two organic compounds (naphthalene and formaldehyde) were investigated for their sorption properties on to multiwall carbon nanotubes in original state and purified using acid treatment. Nice enhancement of sorptive ability was observed after nanotube purification. Smaller organic molecule was adsorbed in higher weight percentage (reaching 30 wt.%) than naphthalene (approx.13 wt.%). Molecular modeling confirmed adsorption centers of organics on carbon nanotubes being located on the outside area or close to center of nanotube, then having the lowest energy of adsorption.