A reaction product analysis of single wall carbon nanotubes functionalized by solvent-free
and aqueous-based arenediazonium species is discussed. Both GC-MS on the thermolysis
products along with XPS analysis of the materials, suggests that the only functionality
on the SWNT is the arene group. The mechanism is indicative of either direct aryl
radical addition to the SWNT or (a) electron injection from the nanotube to the arenediazonium
species, (b) reaction of the SWNT-radical cation with an aryl radical, followed by
(c) an electron transfer to the nanotube. A method for defunctionalizing the nanotubes
is disclosed wherein the SWNTs are resuspendable in organic solvent.
nanotube functionalization - fullerene - defunctionalization - aryl radical - carbon
nanotubes