Nanocomposites of poly(L-lysine) and single-walled carbon nanotubes

Backgroud: Single-walled carbon nanotubes have inspired research owing to their promise in a broad range of applications. The dispersion of carbon nanotubes is of key importance for the utilization of this interesting material for various potential applications. Results: A novel and simple method was developed to fabricate polymer composites with single-walled carbon nanotubes based on a solid-state reaction, in which the nanotubes were reacted with poly(L-lysine) using high-speed vibration milling. Fourier transform infrared and UV-visible spectroscopy as well as thermogravimetry were employed to characterize the novel composites. The morphology and the dispersion of the carbon nanotubes were determined using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Conclusion: The resulting composites were dispersable in water and are expected to have great potential for both molecular-level studies and device applications of nanotubes.