Dispersion of multiwalled carbon nanotubes in water using ionic-complementary peptides

Area of Science:

• Biomaterials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Surface Chemistry

Background:

• Mutiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) possess unique properties but often exhibit poor dispersibility in aqueous solutions.
• Surface modification is crucial for enhancing the solubility and functionality of nanomaterials like MWNTs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To achieve noncovalent modification of MWNTs in aqueous solution using an ionic-complementary peptide (EFK16-II).
• To investigate the stability and properties of the modified MWNTs and their potential biomedical applications.

Main Methods:

• Noncovalent modification of MWNTs with EFK16-II peptide in aqueous solution.
• Characterization using ζ potential measurements and dynamic light scattering (DLS).
• Surface deposition on mica using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
• Evaluation of biocompatibility using cell culture.

Main Results:

• EFK16-II peptide effectively modified MWNTs, leading to stable aqueous dispersions.
• Stability correlated with electrostatic repulsion, influenced by pH and ζ potential.
• Modified MWNTs uniformly distributed on mica surfaces.
• Demonstrated biocompatibility for cell attachment and growth.

Conclusions:

• Noncovalent peptide modification offers a viable strategy for creating stable, water-dispersible MWNTs.
• The modified MWNTs show promise for biomedical applications, including bioelectrode interfaces and biosensors.
• Enhanced biocompatibility and electrical conductivity are key advantages for future applications.