XPS Demonstration of π−π Interaction between Benzyl Mercaptan and Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes and Their Use in the Adhesion of Pt Nanoparticles

We have carried out the functionalization of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) via π−π interaction with benzyl mercaptan. The presence of noncovalently bonded benzyl mercaptan was demonstrated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, which revealed spectral changes indicating its π−π interaction with the CNTs. The subsequent bonding of the thiol groups to both evaporated and chemically reduced Pt nanoparticles was demonstrated by the formation of strong Pt−S bonds in the Pt 4f and S 2p spectra. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy was used to confirm the Pt nanoparticle distribution along the walls of the CNTs.