Preparation of semiconductor-enriched single-walled carbon nanotube dispersion using a neutral pH water soluble chitosan derivative

Debundling and selective dispersion of semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) has been demonstrated using a neutral pH water soluble chitosan derivative, N-acetylated chitosan (NACHI), which is synthesized by controlled N-acetylation of chitosan using acetic anhydride. The SWNT–NACHI supernatant solution demonstrated semiconductor-enriched property owing to the preferential adsorption of N-groups of the NACHI on semiconducting nanotubes with a fairly weak charge transfer. The dispersion of nearly individualized SWNTs achieved by surface modification of nanotubes with a biocompatible polymer can be utilized for electronic and biomedical applications such as field effect transistor, biosensor, cell culture medium and SWNT-biomacromolecule hybrid materials.

Graphical abstractDebundling and stabilization of semiconductor-enriched SWNT suspension was acquired using a neutral pH water soluble chitosan derivative, N-acetylated chitosan. The N-groups of the polymer selectively adsorb on semiconducting nanotubes..Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (107 K)Download as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights► Individual suspension of SWNTs using a neutral pH water soluble chitosan derivative. ► N-groups of polymer selectively attach on semiconducting SWNTs with a weak charge transfer. ► SWNTs wrapped with biocompatible polymer are attractive for biomedical applications.