Thermal Stability and Surface Functionalization of Magnetic Carbon Nanotubes: FTIR and Thermogravimetric Investigation

The integration of magnetic nanoparticles within carbon nanotube architectures introduces new functionalities while potentially affecting thermal stability and surface chemistry. In this study, magnetic multi-walled carbon nanotubes (Mag-MWCNTs) previously synthesized through iron oxide functionalization were investigated using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). FTIR spectra revealed the coexistence of graphitic carbon structures and metal–oxygen bonding environments associated with iron oxide nanoparticles. Thermogravimetric measurements demonstrated improved thermal resistance and residual mineral content characteristic of magnetic nanocomposites. The results confirm that magnetic functionalization modifies the physicochemical behavior of carbon nanotubes while preserving their structural integrity. These findings support the use of Mag-MWCNTs in biomedical, catalytic, and thermally demanding nanotechnology applications.