Wrapping nanotubes with micelles, hemimicelles, and cylindrical micelles

Small. 2009 Oct;5(19):2191-8. doi: 10.1002/smll.200900528.

Abstract

This work uses a simple model based on hydrophobic and hydrophilic forces to investigate the molecular dynamics that lead to the supramolecular self-assembly of surfactants around carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The effects of the concentration and the structure of surfactants are explored. The bead-based mesoscopic description spontaneously develops the several micellar morphologies that are known to wrap and solvate CNTs.

MeSH terms

  • Adsorption
  • Computer Simulation
  • Diffusion
  • Micelles*
  • Nanotubes, Carbon / chemistry*
  • Surface-Active Agents / chemistry
  • Water / chemistry

Substances

  • Micelles
  • Nanotubes, Carbon
  • Surface-Active Agents
  • Water