Synthesis of Fluorescent Quantum Defects on Carbon Nanotubes

Technology

This technology is a fast, efficient, and scalable method for synthesizing fluorescent defects on SWCNTs through oxygen doping. To introduce fluorescent defects on SWCNTs, the inventors utilize UV radiation with hypochlorite ions and a surfactant, generating oxygen atoms that then attach onto the SWCNT wall. Production of oxygen-doped SWCNTs using this strategy occurs at least 24 times faster than existing methods while minimizing the generation of non-fluorescent defects. Furthermore, the low cost of reagents in this invention enables scalable production of oxygen-doped SWCNTs. This invention is useful for applications that require infrared excitation/emission wavelengths or room-temperature single-photon sources, such as medical imaging and quantum communication.

Problem Addressed

SWCNTs are useful, particularly in the imaging fields, for their ability to emit light over a broad range of wavelengths. The optical properties of SWCNTs can be adjusted though chemical modifications of the nanotube surface. In particular, synthesis of fluorescent quantum defects on SWCNTs, such as through oxygen doping, can enable the generation of short-wave infrared light. Production of light within this wavelength range is especially useful for medical imaging, as it allows for higher resolution imaging. Furthermore, SWCNTs with quantum defects can serve as room-temperature single-photon sources for quantum communication. However, current methods to introduce fluorescent quantum defects on SWCNTs are slow, expensive, and not scalable.

Advantages

• Efficient and low-cost method for synthesis of fluorescent quantum defects, allowing for scalable production
• Ideal for applications that require short wave infrared or single-photon emission properties, including medical imaging and quantum communication