Nanowall Potentials: Effects of Covalent Functionalization on the Carbon Nanotube Point of Zero Charge
Department
Chemistry
Major
Chemistry
Research Advisor
Chusuei, Charles C.
Advisor's Department
Chemistry
Funding Source
University of Missouri Research Board
Abstract
A working knowledge of the carbon nanotube isoelectric points is important for solution phase synthesis of precursors of nanoparticle surfaces for biosensor and catalyst applications. The effect of attaching moieties of various electron-withdrawing character was studied by functionalizing single-walled carbon nanotubes with carboxylic acid, maleic anhydride, and nitroso groups. Covalent functionalization was confirmed by Xray photoelectron and attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopies, and thermogravimetric analysis. Point of zero charge (PZC) measurements indicated that functionalization varied the PZC by as much as 6.3 pH units. UV-vis-NIR absorption in the E11 region and Raman D to G band ratios revealed changes in the semiconducting character of functionalized nanotubes, accompanying changes in the PZC. The results indicate that nanowall functionalization can play a major role in tuning the carbon nanotube isoelectric point, enabling fabrication of a variety of supports.
Biography
Martin McPhail is a senior studying Chemistry. He has worked in the Surface Chemistry Laboratory headed by Dr. Chusuei for the past two years. He has been a part of a number of student organizations, including performing with the Miner League Theatre Players. His professional areas of interest involve materials research with alternative energy applications. After completing his Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry at Missouri S&T, he plans to pursue his Chemistry Doctorate.
Research Category
Sciences
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Document Type
Poster
Location
Upper Atrium/Hallway
Presentation Date
08 Apr 2009, 9:00 am - 11:45 am
Nanowall Potentials: Effects of Covalent Functionalization on the Carbon Nanotube Point of Zero Charge
Upper Atrium/Hallway
A working knowledge of the carbon nanotube isoelectric points is important for solution phase synthesis of precursors of nanoparticle surfaces for biosensor and catalyst applications. The effect of attaching moieties of various electron-withdrawing character was studied by functionalizing single-walled carbon nanotubes with carboxylic acid, maleic anhydride, and nitroso groups. Covalent functionalization was confirmed by Xray photoelectron and attenuated total reflection infrared spectroscopies, and thermogravimetric analysis. Point of zero charge (PZC) measurements indicated that functionalization varied the PZC by as much as 6.3 pH units. UV-vis-NIR absorption in the E11 region and Raman D to G band ratios revealed changes in the semiconducting character of functionalized nanotubes, accompanying changes in the PZC. The results indicate that nanowall functionalization can play a major role in tuning the carbon nanotube isoelectric point, enabling fabrication of a variety of supports.
