Abstract
A soluble π-conjugated polymer
cis-P
mPV is found to be twice as effective as its
trans-P
mPV isomer in dispersing SWNTs into organic solvents. The improved efficiency is related to the specific conformation of
cis-vinylene-enriched P
mPV, which facilitates a planar π–π interaction with SWNT surface and leads to improved nanotube dispersion.
1H NMR spectra indicate that the
cis-CH
CH bonds are partially converted to the
trans-CH
CH, thereby providing necessary conformational cavity for SWNT wrapping. Irradiation triggers a precipitation from SWNT dispersion, providing a purified SWNT/conjugated polymer composite.
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