Tuning CNT Properties for Metal-Free Environmental Catalytic Applications

Abstract

The application of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as metal-free catalysts is a novel approach for heterogeneous liquid phase catalytic systems. Textural and chemical modifications by liquid/gas phase or mechanical treatments, as well as solid state reactions, were successfully applied to obtain carbon nanotubes with different surface functionalities. Oxygen, nitrogen, and sulfur are the most common heteroatoms introduced on the carbon surface. This short-review highlights different routes used to develop metal-free carbon nanotube catalysts with enhanced properties for Advanced Oxidation Processes.

Keywords

• carbon nanotubes
• metal-free catalysts
• oxygen surface groups
• nitrogen-containing groups
• sulfur surface functionalities
• advanced oxidation processes