Carbon nanotubes applications in separation science: a review

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been extensively researched for their unique chemical and structural properties.
• Their applications span nanotechnology, electronics, optics, and medicine, with growing importance in Analytical Chemistry.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent (2009-2011) applications of CNTs in Separation Science.
• To discuss the use of CNTs in various separation techniques and as substrates for laser desorption/ionization.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of manuscripts published between 2009 and 2011.
• Focus on CNTs in solid-phase extraction, microextraction, membranes, chromatography, and electrophoresis.
• Inclusion of CNTs in laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry.

Main Results:

• CNTs are increasingly utilized as effective sorbents in extraction techniques.
• Their incorporation into membranes enhances separation efficiency.
• CNTs show potential in chromatographic and electrophoretic separations.
• Application as substrates in laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry is notable.

Conclusions:

• CNTs are versatile materials with significant potential in diverse Separation Science applications.
• Continued research is expanding their utility in analytical chemistry and related fields.
• The reviewed period highlights a surge in CNT-based separation technologies.