Phase Separation of Carbon Nanotubes and Turbostratic Graphite Using a Functional Organic Polymer

Abstract

Nanotubes are rich in potential applications, but they are very difficult to purify, and yields are often less than 1 %. The solution presented here is to suspend nanotubes in a polymer matrix, which then acts as a filtration system. Incorporation is achieved by sonication, followed by a period of settling, during which the amorphous material falls out, leaving a highly pure sample of nanotubes (see Figure) that contains virtually no other carbonaceous material.