Solution Found to Increase Nanotube Luminescence
Fotios Papadimitrakopoulos, Ph.D.
University of Connecticut
NIEHS Grant R01ES013557
Chemists at the University of Connecticut have found a way to increase the luminescence efficiency of single-walled carbon nanotubes, which could lead to better use of nanotechnology in medical imaging and other applications. Increasing the luminescence efficiency of carbon nanotubes could lead to their use in detecting tumors, arterial blockages and other internal problems that are now diagnosed with potentially harmful x-rays, radioactive dyes or more invasive methods. Physicians could scan patients with a device that would capture a very sharp image from the light given off by the carbon nanotubes.
Previous work in this and other laboratories had only been able to raise the light emitted from nanotubes by 0.5 percent. The new discovery is best described as a chemical sleeve wrapped tightly around the nanotube which reduces exterior defects. The chemical used is a derivative of vitamin B-12, also known as flavin. The flavin molecules “self-assemble” into a tube that adsorbs to the carbon nanotube.
The researchers claim that the act of self-assembly not only forms a new tubular structure, but that it actively cleans the surface of the underlying nanotube. The cleaned nanotubes achieve luminescence efficiency as high as 20 percent.
The researchers are working closely with the university to patent their discoveries and license them to corporate partners. They anticipate that a number of important applications may be possible as the result of their discoveries including medical devices and in biosensor applications.
Citation: Ju SY, Kopcha WP, Papadimitrakopoulos F. Brightly fluorescent single-walled carbon nanotubes via an oxygen-excluding surfactant organization. Science. 2009 Mar 6;323(5919):1319-23.
▲ Up: Gene Packaging is Important in Cancer (http://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/supported/sep/2008/gene-packaging/index.cfm)
▼ Down: Natural Food Products Can Treat Cancer (http://www.niehs.nih.gov/research/supported/sep/2009/natural/index.cfm)
