Alignment of carbon nanotubes by magnetic fields and aqueous dispersion

Abstract

Homogeneous dispersion of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in aqueous solution was achieved using several dispersants. The most efficacious dispersant was Polyethyleneimine (PEI). Stable CNT dispersions are found to have higher zeta potentials compared to poorly dispersed suspensions. Application of a strong magnetic field of 12 T to CNT to align in the direction of the magnetic field. Well-aligned CNTs according to direction of magnetic field were obtained. © 2009 IOP Publishing Ltd.