Publication

Abstract : Synthesis of a new nano hybrid of 5,10,15,20-mesotetra(4-aminophenyl) porphyrin (TAP) functionalized with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) through an amide linkage is reported for the first time. This MWCNT-TAP hybrid was characterized by Raman, Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), absorption and emission spectroscopy. TGA analysis reveals that there is a ∼ 60% weight loss when heated from 150–750∘C , which is attributed to the amount of TAP molecules that were attached to MWCNTs. Electronic properties of MWCNTs were improved in the hybrid compared to raw MWCNTs as evidenced by Raman spectra. The absorption and emission spectra of TAP and nano-hybrid indicate strong positive solvatochromism with increasing solvent polarity. Fluorescence quenching of TAP in different solvents were observed in the emission spectra in the MWCNT-TAP hybrid, indicating that covalent functionalization facilitated effective energy or electron transfer from porphyrin moiety to the MWCNT. Graphical Abstract: SYNOPSIS 5,10,15,20-mesotetra(4-aminophenyl) porphyrin (TAP) was covalently functionalized with MWCNTs through an amide linkage. Fluorescence quenching of TAP by MWCNTs were observed in different solvents. The absorption and emission spectra of this nano-hybrid exhibits strong positive solvatochromism, increasing with the solvent polarity. [Figure not available: see fulltext.]. © 2017, Indian Academy of Sciences.