Addition and cycloaddition reactions to multi-wall carbon nanotubes in the synthesis of dispersible materials for nanotechnology.

Funding: 372 800, 00 PLN

Duration: 2013 – 2015

Abstract:

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) due to their high surface area, and thus the occurrence of extensive van der Waals interactions therebetween, have strong tendency to agglomerate. This process results in low dispersibility MWCNTs in both polar and non-polar solvents, which considerably reduces the potential application of these nanostructures. The objective of this project is to develop methods for covalent functionalization of MWCNTs using cycloaddition [2 + 4] – 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition (3 + 2), and Diels-Alder (4 + 2) – and the nucleophilic and radical addition reactions, and to explain the role of morphology and chemical structure of MWCNTs’ walls (in general – their defectiveness) in obtained degrees of functionalization. The functionalized MWCNTs (f-MWCNTs) are examined as potential nanobiocatalysts, contrast agents for MRI, drug carriers, as well as nanocomposites and hybrid polymeric materials.

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