Nano-extraction and nano-condensation for C60 incorporation into single-wall carbon nanotubes in liquid phases

We have established two new methods that enable incorporation of guest molecules into single-wall carbon nanotubes in liquid phases. Owing to their unique mechanisms, we call them nano-extraction and nano-condensation methods. To make Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) that have incorporated C60 ((C60)n@SWNT) through nano-extraction, we put C60 and SWNTs in ethanol for 1 day, during which the C60 molecules deposited themselves inside the SWNTs. In the case of nano-condensation, we formed thin layers of C60-toluene saturated solution on SWNT surfaces and then obtained (C60)n@SWNT within a few seconds. Reasonable explanations for these incorporation mechanisms are presented.