Aqueous Solution Dispersement of Carbon Nanotubes

NASA’s Langley Research Center researchers have developed a novel method to disperse carbon nanotubes in aqueous solutions using chemical buffers. By avoiding the common use of surfactants to achieve dispersion, the researchers have provided a means to maintain biocompatibility of the carbon nanotubes, while also providing a means to functionalize the nanotube surfaces for specific biological and chemical activity. One particular example is the use of this approach to functionalize the surface with nano platinum catalysts to use as electrodes for fuel cells or biofuel cells. Additional surface functionality could provide use for biosensors or delivery of functionalized molecules for medical applications.