Energy Transfer Interactions Between Single-Chirality Swcnts and Photoactive Molecules

Single-chirality single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) have unique optoelectronic properties that can be utilized in specific application, such as photovoltaics and biosensor. However, due to the large variety of SWCNTs and the difficulty of separation, the application of chiral SWCNTs are limited. Recently, a two-step aqueous two-phase extraction has been developed to allow a fast, high-yield separation of single-chirality SWCNTs. We aim to isolate different diameter SWCNTs and investigate photoactive molecule/SWCNT interactions such as porphyrins with different types of functional group. The structural influence of the porphyrin and their interaction with isolated SWCNTs of various diameters will be interpreted based on optical spectroscopic signatures of energy transfer. Further understanding will aid in the development of porphyrin-sensitized SWCNT photovoltaics thereby broadening the range of solar harvesting.