Year: 2017
Type: article
Abstract: The iminoborane (HBNH) molecule selectively breaks a B═N bond of smaller diameter single-wall BN nanotubes (BNNTs) and expands a ring at their surface, either at the edges or at the middle of the tube. Density functional theory is used to test whether its organic counterpart HCCH can do the same with BNNTs. HCCH–BNNT complexes are identified and transition states located for these combination reactions. Also explored are possible reactions of HBNH with single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and HCCH with SWNTs. Data suggest that B═N (C═C) bond breaking, followed by ring expansion at the surface, may be possible. Although [2 + 2]cycloaddition reaction seems possible for HBNH–BNNTs, a high energy barrier hinders the process for other combinations of reactants. Introduction of substituents to HBNH/HCCH may allow a facile process. In most cases of HCCH–BNNTs, HBNH–SWNTs, and HCCH–SWNTs, transition states are identified and suggest an electron-rich reactant might lower barrier heights to form stable complexes. Reaction with HCCH or HBNH at the bay region of smaller diameter armchair tube is not favorable.
Language: English
Subfield: Materials Chemistry
Field: Materials Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: green
Funder: Alexander von Humboldt-Stiftung
OpenAlex ID: W2766021829