Temperature induced restoration of fluorescence from oxidised single-walled carbon nanotubes in aqueous sodium dodecylsulfate solution

Fluorescence intensity from single walled carbon nanotubes in aqueous sodium dodecylsulfate solution is shown to be strongly temperature dependent in the range 5-60 degrees C. Emission peaks corresponding to particular nanotube species which have been quenched due to oxidation by aerated water show sharp transitions at distinct temperatures as the sample is heated. The temperature at which the transition occurs is found to be species dependent and has been interpreted as being proportional to the valence band edge potential of the nanotube. The results are explained quantitatively using the Nernst equation to measure the increase in reduction potential of the solution as the temperature is raised. The removal of dissolved O(2) and CO(2) is thought to be a significant driving force in the reversal of the redox reaction which causes oxidation of the nanotubes.