Doping of nitrogen atoms during chemical vapor deposition (CVD) synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can result in a compartmented hollow structure consisting of many stacked graphitic nanocups. These nanocups, termed as nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube cups (NCNCs), can be isolated from their stacked structure by mechanical separation such as intense ultrasonication.The resultant individual nanocups have inherent nitrogen functionalities preferentially distributed at the open edges of the cups. In order to improve their biocompatibility, NCNCs can be oxidized in a mixture of strong acids to increase the hydrophilicity. Gold nanoparticles (GNPs) can be effectively anchored on the nanocups in aqueous phase by direct reduction of chloroauric acid with trisodium citrate as the reduction reagent. Due to the enrichment of nitrogen functionalities, GNPs tend to grow on the opening of the nanocups and form nanoparticle corks. These corked nanocup/GNP self-assemblies with confined inner cavities may be potentially applied as drug containers.

Self-assembly of carbon nanotube cups with gold nanoparticle corks

245th National Meeting (2013)

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