Sidewall functionalization of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) through aryl free radical addition

We report a new SWNT functionalization method through 4-methoxyphenyl free radical addition. The 4-methoxyphenyl radicals are generated by air oxidation of 4-methoxyphenylhydrazine hydrochloride. Absorption and Raman spectroscopy show the covalent nature of the bond between the nanotubes and the functional groups. The XPS and TGA data furnish quantitative information on the degree of functionalization.