Covalent functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes by polyvinylimidazole

The multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) covalently bonded by polyvinylimidazole (PVI) (MWCNT-b-PVI) were synthesized and both their chemical and aggregated structures were characterized by means of TEM, IR, XRD and SEM measurements. MWCNT-b-PVI showed enhanced chemical stability in many common solvents and enhanced thermal stability. It will supply a new way to synthesize functional materials with new optical, magnetic and electrical properties, combining excellent mechanics, heat-stabilization, optical, electrical, processing and film forming properties of carbon nanotubes and heterocyclic polymer.