Transparent and Catalytic Carbon Nanotube Films

We report on the synthesis of thin, transparent, and highly catalytic carbon nanotube films. Nanotubes catalyze the reduction of triiodide, a reaction that is important for the dye-sensitized solar cell, with a charge-transfer resistance as measured by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy that decreases with increasing film thickness. Moreover, the catalytic activity can be significantly enhanced by exposing the nanotubes to ozone in order to introduce defects. Ozone-treated, defective nanotube films could serve as catalytic, transparent, and conducting electrodes for the dye-sensitized solar cell. Other possible applications include batteries, fuel cells, and electroanalytical devices.