Carbon Nanotubes With Hydrophilic Surfaces Produced By A Wet-mechanochemical Reaction With Potassium Hydroxide Using Ethanol As Solvent

摘要

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were treated by a simple wet-mechanochemical reaction with potassium hydroxide using ethanol as solvent to enhance their dispersibility. Fourier transmission infrared spectroscopy measurements show that the non-reactive surfaces of MWCNTs were modified directly by multiple hydroxyl groups. The products, defined as MWCNTols, are highly soluble in water and other polar solvents. Different microstructures of linear, swirl, and ring shapes have been observed in MWCNTol sheets. The formation mechanism has been investigated and MWCNTol length was proposed as the key factor affecting the observed microstructures.