Phase separation of carbon nanotubes and turbostratic graphite using a functional organic polymer

Nanotubes are rich in potential applications, but they are Very difficult to purify, and yields are often less than I %. The solution presented here is to suspend nanotubes in a polymer matrix, which then acts as a filtration system. Incorporation is achieved by sonication, followed by a period of settling, during which the amorphous material falls out, leaving a highly pure sample of nanotubes (see Figure) that contains virtually no other carbonaceous material.