Linear and nonlinear optical characterization of a tetraphenylporphyrin-carbon nanotube composite system

We present a study of tetraphenylporphyrin composites formed with single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Stable porphyrin/SWNT composite solutions were obtained by non-covalent bonding between the carbon nanotubes and conjugated tetraphenylporphyrin molecules. Transmission electron microscopy reveals porphyrin molecules adhering to the nanotube surface. We report on the first complete linear and nonlinear optical characterization of these nanocomposite materials. The composite solutions were found to be superior optical limiters to nanotubes alone, and to all porphyrin systems studied, including metalloporphyrins.