(Invited) 3D Multifunctional Carbon Nanotube Networks

Abstract

In the field of nanomaterials research, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), proved to possess unique physicochemical properties, owing to their nanoscale dimensions, that have been applied to improve the performance of existing processes or even design novel technologies. Recently, there has been a growing interest in obtaining natural and synthetic three-dimensional (3D) architectures instead of two-dimensional ones to increase the active surface-to-volume ratio throughout the entire 3D structure, which proves to be advantageous in several applications. The 3D macroscopic structures can be obtained from the assembly of nanomaterials like graphene, carbon nanotubes, polymers and similar others, following chemical and physical routes and the resulting properties derive from the combination of those of the nano-constituents and those due to the complex architecture (like porosity, lightweight and others). In this paper, we show that is possible to promote a direct self-assembly of CNTs to obtain 3D networks following a chemical vapor deposition route. The self-supporting internal structure consist of interconnected CNTs and to lesser extent of carbon fibers that form a random skeleton with micrometer-size open pores. The porous nature of the network is directly responsible for its lightweight and the hydrophobic and lipophilic behavior, therefore the material is called CNT-sponge (figure 1). In addition, the macroscopic assembly shows high structural stability and good electrical conductivity, and mechanical response. The experimental results obtained in our laboratory, demonstrate that this 3D new material can be successfully applied in different applications. In particular, they can be applied as active material to address some environmental challenges involving water treatment, energy production, and contaminant sensing. Other potential applications include their use as pressure-sensors, in photon-energy conversion devices and as guides in reconnection of segregated spinal explants. References Scarselli M., et al. Beilstein J. Nanotechnol. 6 (2015) 792–798; Camilli L., Scarselli, M. et al., Appl. Phys. Lett. 102 , (2013) 183117; Camilli, L.; Scarselli, M. et al., Nanotechnology 25 , (2014) 065701. Figure 1