Detection of paracetamol by armchair BN nanotubes: a molecular study

We have investigated structural and electronic properties of single wall (5,5) boron nitride nanotubes functionalized on the surface and at the ends with paracetamol (C8H9NO2). Studies have been done within the density functional theory as implemented in DMol(3) quantum chemistry code. The exchange and correlation energies have been treated according to the generalized gradient approximation with the Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof parameterization and a basis function with double polarization. The geometry optimization of the (5,5) BNNT-Paracetamol system has been done using the criterion of minimum energy considering eight possible atomic interacting configurations. Simulation results show that the preferential interaction (physisorption) site of the paracetamol is on the nanotube surface in a parallel configuration and making an angle of 45A degrees in the perpendicular direction to the nanotube. The BNNT-Paracetamol system experiences an increase in the polarity which favors the possible dispersion and solubility. As a result of the interaction, the functionalized nanotube chemical reactivity is increased. Provided the work function of the nondoped BNNT-Paracetamol structure decreases as compared with the pristine BNNT, the functionalized nanotubes yielded conditions to improve field emission properties consequently, they may be used as biosensors of paracetamol. Finally, the nanotube doped with carbon atoms induces chemisorption and an increase in the polarity, reactivity, and reduction in the work function. Taking into account, these results it may be suggested the use of the system in sensor devices and optoelectronic systems.