Integrating Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes into Supramolecular Assemblies: From Basic Interactions to Emerging Applications

Abstract

Integrating single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) into supramolecular self-assemblies harnesses the distinctive mechanical, optical, and electronic properties of the nanoparticles alongside the structural and chemical properties of the assemblies. Organic molecules capable of forming supramolecular assemblies through hydrophobic, van der Waals, and π–π interactions have been demonstrated to be particularly effective in dispersing and functionalizing SWCNTs, as these same interactions facilitate the binding to the hydrophobic graphene-like surface of the SWCNTs. This review discusses a variety of self-assembling structures that were shown to integrate SWCNTs, ranging from simple micelles and ring structures to complex DNA origami and three-dimensional hydrogels formed by low-molecular-weight gelators. We explore the integration of SWCNTs into various supramolecular assemblies and highlight emerging applications of these composite materials, such as the mechanical enforcement of self-assembling hydrogels and leveraging the near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence properties of SWCNTs for monitoring the molecular self-assembly process. Notably, the distinctive NIR fluorescence of SWCNTs, which overlaps with the biological transparency window, offers significant opportunities for noninvasive sensing applications within the supramolecular platforms. Future research into a deeper understanding of the interactions between SWCNTs and different supramolecular frameworks will expand the potential applications of SWCNT-integrated supramolecular assemblies in fields like biomedical engineering, electronic devices, and environmental sensing.