Preparation of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Dispersions for Nano Risk Evaluation

Abstract

In order to provide single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) dispersions for SWNTs Risk Evaluation, sodium deoxycholate, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, and vitamin E TPGS were screened out from about twenty biocompatible surfactants or polymers. SWNTs dispersions in these surfactants aqueous solutions were prepared with simple low power ultrasonication (with the aid of glass beads) and centrifugation method. Vis-NIR measurement and TEM observation showed the dispersions contained mainly single tubes, and the estimated concentrations were in the mg/ml level. The resultant dispersions are suitable for in vitro and in vivo toxicity/safety test of SWNTs.