Reactive Conjugated Polymers for Selective Dispersion of Carbon Nanotubes

IQC Colloquium - Alex Andronov, McMaster University

Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (SWNTs) exhibit a number of unique mechanical, thermal, and electronic properties that render them useful for numerous applications, ranging from molecular electronics to nano-scale construction materials.  However, SWNTs are highly insoluble and are devoid of reactive functionality, posing major limitations to their modification, manipulation, and applications.  Recently, π-stacking interactions between conjugated polymers and SWNTs have proven effective not only in dispersing individual nanotubes in a variety of solvents, but also in selectively interacting with semiconducting SWNTs.  However, most conjugated polymers lack functionality along their backbone, and are therefore difficult to post-synthetically modify.  Thus, investigation of new polymer structures that exhibit selective interactions with different nanotube types and allow for further functionalization is a worthwhile area of investigation.  We have developed conjugated polymers that can be efficiently modified post-polymerization and even after interaction with SWNT surfaces to form supramolecular assemblies. Decoration of these assemblies has enabled solubility switching, introduction of responsive functionalities, and the development of nanotube-based complexes having potential sensory applications. This presentation will highlight recent results in these directions.

Colloquium presentation begins at 4:00, but refreshments will be served prior to the start of the presentation. 3:40 to 4:00.

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