Dispersions (including monodispersions) of nanotubes in water at relatively high concentrations have been formulated as prototypes of reagents for use in making fibers, films, and membranes based on single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Other than water, the ingredients of a dispersion of this type include one or more charged surfactant( s) and carbon nanotubes derived from the HiPco™ (or equivalent) process. Among reagents known to be made from HiPco™ (or equivalent) SWNTs, these are the most concentrated and are expected to be usable in processing of bulk structures and materials. Test data indicate that small bundles of SWNTs and single SWNTs at concentrations up to 1.1 weight percent have been present in water plus surfactant. This development is expected to contribute to the growth of an industry based on applied carbon nanotechnology. There are expected to be commercial applications in aerospace, avionics, sporting goods, automotive products, biotechnology, and medicine.

This work was done by Cynthia Kuper and Mike Kuzma of Versilant Nanotechnologies for Johnson Space Center. For further information, contact the Technology Transfer Office at (281) 483-3809.

In accordance with Public Law 96-517, the contractor has elected to retain title to this invention. Inquiries concerning rights for its commercial use should be addressed to:
Versilant Nanotechnologies
3231 Walnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19104

Refer to MSC-23383, volume and number of this NASA Tech Briefs issue, and the page number.