Carbon nanotubes have been recognized as excellent platforms for bioanalytical devices because of their unique properties. Besides the well known properties, the low dispersability of carbon nanotube significantly limits their application, especially in biological field.

In this work, we first seek to use various methods to functionalize single wall carbon nanotubes with immobilized enzyme for bioanalytical application. Different routes of enzyme immobilization including both covalent and non-covalent methodologies were studied for enzyme loading and retention of activity. After modification, the addition of amphiphilic molecules to aid in nanotube dispersability was done and its effect on enzyme activity evaluated. We also discuss the possible mechanisms which result in the reduction of enzyme activity.

We also introduce a novel, simple ultraviolet initiated “graft from” polymerization method to synthesize polymer functionalized carbon nanotube. Not only is the dispersability of carbon nanotubes greatly enhanced, but the relatively low reaction temperature makes the spontaneous attachment of biomolecules such as enzymes and antibodies possible.