For professionals in materials science, engineering, and R&D, selecting the right Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes (MWCNTs) is a critical step towards achieving desired product performance. The market offers a range of MWCNTs, each with distinct specifications that influence their behavior and suitability for various applications. Understanding these specifications is key to making informed purchasing decisions. Let's delve into the most important parameters when you consider to buy multi-walled carbon nanotubes.

Outer Diameter (OD) and Inner Diameter (ID): The outer diameter typically ranges from a few nanometers up to tens of nanometers. A smaller OD generally indicates fewer walls, which can sometimes correlate with higher purity and unique electronic properties. The inner diameter is also important, contributing to the overall density and surface area. For applications requiring fine dispersion or specific electronic behavior, precise OD control is essential.

Length: MWCNTs can vary significantly in length, from sub-micrometers to hundreds of micrometers. Longer nanotubes tend to form more robust conductive networks in composites and offer better mechanical reinforcement due to their higher aspect ratio. However, achieving uniform dispersion with very long nanotubes can be more challenging. The typical lengths offered by a multi-walled carbon nanotube manufacturer can cater to different dispersion methods and application needs.

Purity: This refers to the percentage of MWCNTs relative to impurities such as amorphous carbon, residual catalysts, or other graphitic structures. High purity (e.g., >95% or >98%) is crucial for applications where contaminants could interfere with electrical conductivity, optical properties, or biological interactions. Reputable suppliers, including those operating as a supplier of carbon nanotubes in China, provide detailed purity analysis for their products.

Specific Surface Area (SSA): Measured in m²/g, SSA indicates the total surface area available per unit mass of the material. A higher SSA, often achieved with smaller diameters and fewer walls, is advantageous for applications like catalysis, adsorption, and energy storage where surface interactions are paramount. It reflects the material's capacity to interact with its surroundings.

Surface Functionalization: As discussed previously, the presence of specific chemical groups on the nanotube surface can dramatically alter their compatibility with various matrices and solvents. When inquiring about MWCNT price, it's important to note that functionalized variants may command a different price due to the additional processing involved. Clearly defining the required functional groups (e.g., -OH, -COOH) is vital for specific applications.

When selecting an MWCNT supplier, look for companies that provide comprehensive technical data, certificates of analysis (CoA), and are transparent about their manufacturing processes. Understanding these specifications will empower you to choose the MWCNTs that best fit your application's performance requirements and budget. A knowledgeable manufacturer can be an invaluable partner in navigating these choices.