Functionalization and applications of carbon nanotubes
Name
809680459-MIT.pdf
Description
Full printable version
Size
30.46 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
50c390d5f3779e9bafd094a5a94614aa
Author(s)
Schnorr, Jan M. (Jan Markus)
Advisor(s)
Timothy M. Swager.
Alternative Title
Functionalization and applications of CNTs
Date Issued
2012
Publisher
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) possess a unique set of electrical and mechanical properties and have been used in a variety of applications. In this thesis, we explore strategies to functionalize CNTs as well as applications which are enabled by functionalized CNTs. Chapter 1 gives an overview of emerging applications of CNTs. In Chapter 2, we describe a route that leads to highly water-soluble multi-walled CNTs (MWCNTs). The good solubility facilitates processing and manipulation of the CNTs. Furthermore, we explore the use of soluble MWCNTs as electrical interconnects in water. Using a Wacker type oxidation reaction, we demonstrate that this type of CNTs can have a positive effect on reactions that involve a metal to metal electron transfer. In Chapter 3, we explore catalytic aziridination reactions to functionalize CNTs as well as [60]fullerene and graphite. In Chapter 4, we use amine functionalized single-walled CNTs (SWCNTs) to attach receptors for gas sensing applications. We optimize the receptors and test the functionalized SWCNTs in an array sensor with regard to sensitivity, selectivity, stability and reproducibility. In Chapter 5, we demonstrate a highly selective sensor for N-methylammonium salts based on SWCNTs that are functionalized with a cavitand. In Chapter 6, we describe a sensor for the plant hormone ethylene. The sensor is based on SWCNTs that are non-covalently functionalized with a copper complex. The device shows good sensitivity and selectivity for ethylene and could be useful in the horticultural industries.
Description
Thesis (Ph. D.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Chemistry, 2012.
Vita. Cataloged from PDF version of thesis.
Includes bibliographical references.
Subjects
Chemistry.
MIT Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Chemistry
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