Towards total dissolution of full length unmodified carbon nanotubes (CNT) and its application to fabrication of ultra-thin CNT films at the water/air interface

Abstract

In this study, we report the observation of dissolution of unmodified full-length CNTs using liquid state alkane at elevated temperatures. The dissolved CNTs were examined by UV-vis absorption and fluorescence spectroscopy, and SEM methods. The results obtained support the existence of the CNT component in the solution. Furthermore, a condensed ultra-thin film of carbon nanotubes, which were not treated by ultrasonic agitation and acid to avoid damaging the nanotubes, was fabricated on a pure water subphase. The film is stable at least up to 60 mN m⁻¹. The TEM images on the film show that individual carbon nanotubes and carbon nanotube bundles are indeed present in the film.