Colloidal stability of modified carbon nanotubes


Colloidal stability of modified carbon nanotubes

Schymura, S.; Weiß, S.; Zänker, H.; Franke, K.

The implications of a carbon nanotube (CNT) release into the environment are majorly influenced by the colloidal stability of the CNTs in surface or ground waters. A main factor for this stability is the degree of oxidation of the CNTs. Pristine CNTs show very low dispersion stability in water and quickly aggregate and sediment. However, oxidation processes are expected to happen in the environment or are deliberately performed on the CNTs, for better dispersability in technical applications prior to the possible release.
For this study samples of different types of CNTs, multi wall as well as single wall CNTs, were oxidized by a microwave assisted acid treatment with concentrated nitric and sulphuric acid, which allowed a fast reproducible modification of the CNTs. The modification was verified by IR and Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and measurements of the iso-electric point.
The colloidal stability of the so modified CNTs was investigated using dynamic light scattering methods to follow the aggregation and sedimentation of the CNTs as well as establishing the zeta potential of the modified CNTs in waters of different ionic strength.
The colloidal stability of the CNTs in distilled and low ionic strength water exceeds months. This has implications for their transport behaviour upon release into the environment. A transport of CNTs in surface and ground waters can be expected under certain conditions.

  • Poster
    Nanosafe 2012, 13.-15.11.2012, Grenoble, Frankreich

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Publ.-Id: 18061