Carbon Nanotube (CNT) Functionalization

In this work, we have reacted nanotubes as if there were chemical ligands. Indeed, the protocols that we have created have significantly enhanced the ability to purify, exfoliate, process, solubilize, and even render biocompatible CNTs, thereby permitting more facile photophysical and biomedical applications of these systems. This work is summarized in a number of invited contributions including Chem. Eur. J., v.9, 1898 (2003), Adv. Mater., v.17, 17 (2005), Chem. Soc. Rev., v.21, 682 (2009), as well as Adv. Mater., v.21, 625 (2009). By providing new ways to isolate, purify, and functionalize CNTs, our research is bringing their potential for novel technological uses closer to fruition. Thus, our research accomplishments address key challenges facing the incorporation of CNTs into practical, functional devices.