Halloysite nanotube with fluorinated lumen: Non-foaming nanocontainer for storage and controlled release of oxygen in aqueous media

• Halloysite nanotubes were selectively modified at the inner hollow cavity by taking the advantage of electrostatic interactions.
• Modified halloysite nanotubes formed stable aqueous dispersions.
• Nanotubes with a perfluorinated cavity can be used as non-foaming oxygen nanocontainers in aqueous media.

Halloysite clay nanotubes were selectivity modified by adsorbing perfluoroalkylated anionic surfactants at the inner surface. The modified nanotubes formed kinetically stable dispersions due to the enhanced electrostatic repulsions exercised between the particles. We proved that the modified nanotubes can be used as non-foaming oxygen nanocontainers in aqueous media. The gas release from supersaturated dispersions can be controlled by external stimuli and system composition. In conclusion, we managed to put forward an easy strategy to develop smart materials from natural nanoclays, which can endow important applications like the storage and delivery of gas.

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