Design of carbon nanotube-based sensors for the detection of catalytic activity
(2016)
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- Abstract
- Due to their outstanding properties, carbon nanotubes are being considered as promising materials in various fields. Namely, their quasi-one-dimensionality and high surface/volume ratio make them ideal candidates for sensing applications. In this thesis, we used carbon nanotubes as sensors for the real-time detection of a catalyzed chemical transformation. In order to do this, carbon nanotube supported catalysts were prepared using appropriate functionalization methods. The catalyst preparation was carefully analyzed by appropriate characterization techniques, such as Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Moreover, the materials were also electrically characterized at each step of the catalyst preparation process. This electrical characterization allowed us to study the influence of the different steps of the functionalization strategy on the nanotube conductivity. These materials were then tested in catalysis. The activity and recyclability of the catalysts were monitored by gas chromatography. Finally, we demonstrated in this thesis the possibility of using carbon nanotubes as sensors for the in situ detection of catalytic activity. For this purpose, real-time electrical measurements were recorded during the catalytic reaction. The catalytic activity was revealed by fluctuations of the nanotube conductivity over time.
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Citations
Vanhorenbeke, B. (2016). Design of carbon nanotube-based sensors for the detection of catalytic activity. https://hdl.handle.net/2078.5/96862