Noncovalent interactions of molecules with single walled carbon nanotubes

In this critical review we survey non-covalent interactions of carbon nanotubes with molecular species from a chemical perspective, particularly emphasising the relationship between the structure and dynamics of these structures and their functional properties. We demonstrate the synergistic character of the nanotube–molecule interactions, as molecules that affect nanotube properties are also altered by the presence of the nanotube. The diversity of mechanisms of molecule–nanotube interactions and the range of experimental techniques employed for their characterisation are illustrated by examples from recent reports. Some practical applications for carbon nanotubes involved in non-covalent interactions with molecules are discussed.