A facile and patternable method for the surface modification of carbon nanotube forests using perfluoroarylazides

A facile patterning method for the functionalization of vertically aligned carbon nanotubes; is described. Modification of the surface of nanotube forests with hydrophilic, hydrophobic, or polymerizable small molecules was achieved via UV-triggered attachment of perfluoroarylazides. Multiple functionalizations; of the tube surface can be achieved. Macro- and micropatterning of forest substrates were demonstrated. Superhydrophobic surfaces containing superhydrophilic regions were prepared.