MINT Mechanically Interlocked Carbon Nanotubes

Dr. Emilio Pérez

Funding : ERC-2012-StG_20111012 nº 307609

Duration: 2012 - 2017

72 months

We present a plan to design, synthesize and exploit the properties of mechanically interlocked carbon nanotubes (MINTs). The scientific aim of the project is to introduce the mechanical bond as a new tool for the derivatization of carbon nanotubes. The mechanical link combines the advantages of covalent and supramolecular modifications, namely: kinetic stability (covalent) and conserved chemical structure (supramolecular). Besides this, its dynamic nature opens up unique opportunities for both fundamental studies and

applications. From a technological point of view, MINTs should have a practical impact in the fields of molecular electronics and molecular machinery. A general modular approach to MINT-based materials for photovoltaic devices and electrochemical sensors is presented. We also expect to exploit the rigidity and low dimensionality of SWNTs to construct molecular machines that utilize them as tracks to move across long distances, which is not possible in small-molecule molecular machines. To achieve these goals we will exploit the PI’s expertise in the chemical modification of carbon nanostructures, the self-assembly of electroactive materials and the synthesis and characterization of mechanically interlocked molecules.