Optimizing functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes using sodium lignosulfonate

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were functionalized with sodium lignosulfonate (SLS) at various SLS/MWCNT ratios, and the solubility of the functionalized MWCNTs was examined using ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy. Then, the effects of SLS on the dispersion and conductivity of MWCNTs were investigated. A calibration curve was constructed to measure the concentration of MWCNTs in water using the absorbance measured from UV-Vis spectroscopy. Using the curve, the change in the functionalized MWCNT concentration was investigated as a function of time. The results showed that the solubility of the MWCNTs did not increase significantly with further increases in SLS after the appropriate amount of SLS was employed. Excessive use of SLS rather decreased the conductivity of functionalized MWNTs. Also, the solubility of MWCNTs was influenced by dispersing method even when the same amount of SLS was used. Our method could functionalize the MWCNTs with a small amount of SLS, and the solution could remain stable for lengthy periods of time.