One-Step Cutting of Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Using Nanoscissors

Abstract

Abstract:A novel, simple, and effective one-step method has been developed to cut the conventional long and entangled multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with nanoscissors. The cutting process was carried out by the interactive collision of CNTs with the silicon carbide particles adhered on the abrasive papers. The final cut nanotubes have an average length of 200∼300 nm. The statistical length distribution result indicates that cutting by this method achieves high cutting efficiency for short duration of 2 min. Shortened nanotubes are found to be easily dispersed into aqueous and ethanol solutions. The cut MWCNTs/copper composite thin film fabricated by combined electrophoresis and electroplating techniques reveals that MWCNTs after cutting are well distributed and adhered to the Cu matrix. This method is not only fast and efficient but also no chemical waste, which will expand many potential applications of CNTs.

Electrokinetic Properties of the Pristine and Oxidized MWCNT Depending on the Electrolyte Type and Concentration

“…A nanotube’s three-dimensional shape on the one hand can promote the stabilization of the dispersion in case of nanotubes expanded state with charge concentration on outside end, on the other hand, it can cause the suspension exfoliation due to multiplicity of contacts between the particles, and as a result, a discreteness of formation and distribution of the charge along the nanotubes surface, in inner and outer area of aggregates. As shown in [ 18 ], after cutting of the nanotubes, the stability of aqueous dispersions was increased, on the other hand, a decrease in particle size is marked increase in aggregation [ 19 , 20 ]. Nonuniform distribution of the active sites with a concentration of charged groups on structural defects (bends, kinks, wall cavities) and on ends of nanotubes considerably complicates the stabilization of the dispersion.…”

Electrodeposition of Sn and Sn Composites with Carbon Materials Using Choline Chloride-Based Ionic Liquids

“…The incorporation of CNTs into metal matrixes is still a challenge. Few research groups have succeeded in preparing CNTs composites with a variety of metals [31][32][33][34][35][36][37].…”

Synthesis of short graphene oxide nanoribbons for improved biomarker detection of Parkinson's disease

“…Zhao et al (2011) utilized the silicon carbide particles adhered on the abrasive papers to cut long and entangled MWCNTs. Wang et al (2011) cut MWCNTs through selective etching in molten nitrate.…”