Nanohybrid Shish-kebabs: Periodically functionalized carbon nanotubes

Carbon nanotube (CNT)-seeded controlled polymer crystallization provides a simple yet effective means to periodically modify CNT surfaces. Both single- and multiwalled CNTs have been successfully decorated with polyethylene and nylon-6,6 (see Figure and cover), implying that it might be a generic method for CNT functionalization. By coupling crystalline polymers with functional groups, ordered multifunctionality could be realized on individual CNTs.