Abstract
Owing to their exceptional combination of electrical, thermal, mechanical, and optical properties, carbon nanotubes (CNT) have been recognized as favorable materials to be used in various applications, for example, nanocomposites, biotechnology, electronics, and energy related devices. Exploiting their remarkable properties in solutions and composites depends on their state of dispersion. However, their great potential has been hindered by their intrinsic tendency to undergo bundling and lack of dispersibility in aqueous and nonaqueous media. It encourages several researches to improve the dispersibility of CNT in various environments. CNT dispersion commonly deals with surface modification which can be carried out either covalently or noncovalently. Covalent approach enables one to produce versatile functional groups on the CNT surface, which are covalently attached to the sidewall. It is desirable for improving CNT dispersibility in various environments. However, these methods disrupt the π-electron system of the CNT which is in charge for its remarkable electrical properties. It also imparts some structural damage and deteriorates the mechanical properties too. Noncovalent approaches however involve no chemical reaction and associate with physical adsorption of stabilizing agents on the CNT. Beside surface modification, CNT exfoliation by introducing energy to its bundles is also essential for CNT dispersion. Various procedures for surface modification as well as different methods for CNT exfoliation are briefly overviewed in this chapter.
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Nayini, M.M.R., Ranjbar, Z. (2021). Carbon Nanotubes: Dispersion Challenge and How to Overcome It. In: Abraham, J., Thomas, S., Kalarikkal, N. (eds) Handbook of Carbon Nanotubes. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-70614-6_64-1
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