Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) from Synthesis to Functionalized (CNTs) Using Conventional and New Chemical Approaches

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged worldwide because of their remarkable properties enlarging their field of applications. Functionalization of CNTs is a convenient strategy to tackle low dispersion and solubilization of CNTs in many solvents or polymers. It can be done by covalent or noncovalent surface functionalization that is briefly discussed regarding the current literature. Endohedral and exohedral are conventional methods based on covalent and van der Waals bonding forces that are created through CNT functionalization by various materials. In this paper, a review of new approaches and mechanisms of functionalization of CNTs is proposed, including amidation, fluorination, bromination, chlorination, hydrogenation, and electrophilic addition. Our analysis is supported by several characterization methods highlighting recent improvements hence extending the range of applicability of CNTs.