(54c) Functionalization of Carbon Nanotubes by Argon Plasma Assisted Uv Grafting of 1-Vinylimidazole

Due to the unique structural, electronic, and mechanical properties, carbon nanotubes are being considered for numerous nanotechnology applications such as electronic devices, energy storage, superstrong composite material etc. 1 In order to realize these applications, the controlled functionalization at the ends and/or sidewalls of the nanotubes is desirable to improve their solubility and processibility. In the present work, we demonstrate a methodology for functionalizing single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) by argon plasma-assisted UV grafting of 1-vinylimidazole. In particular we have shown that UV radical grafting of 1-vinylimidazole takes place on the defect sites at the ends and the sidewalls of the nanotubes; by exposure in Ar plasmas prior to UV irradiation. More defect sites and thus obtain higher degree of functionalization are obtained. With such functionalization, the bundles of pristine SWNTs exfoliate to small bundles even individual nanotubes. Detailed characterization of such functionalization shall be presented.