Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed and characterized a new class of conjugated, conformationally rigid, and electroactive carbon-based nanotubes known as Tubular[n,m]arenes. These novel nanotube architectures exhibit unique properties, including large internal void spaces (~260 ų), fluorescence, and the ability to accept up to four electrons. They hold potential applications in host-guest chemistry for membrane fabrication, drug delivery, and as seeds in the controlled synthesis of carbon nanotubes with specific chirality and diameter.
Description
Tubular[n,m]arenes are synthesized as wire-like organic conductors with a rigid and conjugated structure that is electroactive. Their large internal cavities enable them to function effectively in host-guest chemistry, where they could be used for selective molecular encapsulation, drug delivery, or as components in membrane fabrication. The unique architecture of these nanotubes also allows them to act as seeds for the synthesis of single-walled carbon nanotubes with controlled chirality and diameter, which is highly desirable in nanomaterials research and development.
Applications
• Enhanced water purification membranes
• Host-guest chemistry for drug delivery
• Seed materials for carbon nanotube synthesis
• Development of new organic electronic materials
Advantages
Tubular[n,m]arenes provide a versatile platform with several advantages, including the ability to accept multiple electrons, making them suitable for various electronic applications. Their fluorescent properties and large internal voids make them excellent candidates for molecular encapsulation and delivery applications. Additionally, their rigid, conjugated structure offers stability and tunability in membrane and nanotube synthesis processes, potentially leading to more efficient and selective fabrication techniques for advanced nanomaterials.
Invention Readiness
The Tubular[n,m]arenes technology is currently at the prototype stage, with several promising applications demonstrated in initial studies. Experimental results show that these nanotubes can effectively serve as enhanced water purification membranes and as seeds for single-walled carbon nanotube synthesis, providing control over chirality and diameter.
IP Status
https://patents.google.com/patent/US20220033410A1
