Dispersion and diameter separation of multi-wall carbon nanotubes in aqueous solutions

Comparative studies on dispersing of multi-wall carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using two anionic surfactants (sodium dodecyl sulphate, SDS, and sodium dodecyl benzenosulfonate, SDBS) are presented. The studies were conducted on the surfactant concentrations that were close to the critical micelle concentration (CMC). The stability of CNTs suspensions obtained for surfactant solutions at concentrations lower than the CMC was investigated. It was also found that the surfactant structure has an influence on the diameter distribution of dispersed CNTs.

Graphical abstractMulti-wall carbon nanotubes were effectively dispersed in aqueous solutions of anionic surfactants even below their CMC. The choice of surfactant influences the diameter distribution of the dispersed nanotubes.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (58 K)Download as PowerPoint slide