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Mechano‐Fenton–Piranha Oxidation of Carbon Nanotubes for Energy Application
Author(s) -
Wei Chaohui,
Akinwolemiwa Bamidele,
Wang Qingfu,
Guan Li,
Xia Lan,
Hu Di,
Tang Bencan,
Yu Linpo,
Chen George Z.
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
advanced sustainable systems
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.499
H-Index - 24
ISSN - 2366-7486
DOI - 10.1002/adsu.201900065
Subject(s) - oxidizing agent , carbon nanotube , materials science , supercapacitor , nanotechnology , polymer , carbon fibers , chemical engineering , process engineering , chemistry , composite material , electrochemistry , organic chemistry , electrode , composite number , engineering
Abstract Emission of nitrogen oxides (NO x ) from chemical processing of materials is a serious environmental concern, frustrating the development of many innovative technologies. For example, sulfonitric oxidation is the most widely used method for processing carbon nanotubes (CNTs), producing a large amount of NO x . As a result, large scale applications of CNTs for downstream purposes remain challenging. Herein, a NO x ‐free oxidation method is proposed for CNTs processing. It starts with mechanically grinding, and then oxidizing the CNTs by hydroxyl radicals in sealed reactors. Such processed CNTs are shorter, possess balanced surface oxygen containing groups without compromising the original CNT integrity, and can disperse readily in water. These are desirable for making various CNT composites, including those with conducting polymers for supercapacitors. The reactors in the process are industrially adoptable, promising a great technological and commercial future.