Synthesis of Carboxylic Functionalized Multi Wall Carbon Nanotubes and Their Application for Static Charge Dissipative Fibers

In the present study, multi wall carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were chemically functionalized by concentrated nitric acid refluxing for 8 hours to form acid functionalized CNTs (FCNTs). Fourier transformed infrared spectra reveal the formation of carboxylic acid (-COOH) functional groups on the surface of chemically treated CNTs. The increase in intensity of Raman spectra D band relative to G band and enhancement of oxygen to carbon ratio confirm the functionalization and formation of –COOH groups, which in turn increase the dispersibility of CNTs in water, thus rendering them solution processable. The X-ray diffraction pattern and scanning electron microscopy images confirm the structure retention of CNTs even after harsh acid treatment. These functionalized CNTs show good affinity towards cotton fibers and the surface resistivity of FCNTs coated fiber has been found to be ~ 1010 Ω/square making them suitable for use as an anti-static material.