Phase Behavior and Fiber Spinning of Lysozyme-Single Walled Carbon Nanotube Dispersions

The phase behavior of lysozyme-single-walled carbon nanotube (LSZ-SWNT) dispersions was characterized using a combination of techniques including cross-polarized optical microscopy and rheology.  Due to the antibacterial properties of LSZ, the strength of SWNT, and the strong associations, the dispersions can be processed into antibacterial films and fibers. The phase behavior of dispersions using HiPCo and CoMoCat SWNT were compared. The effects of [LSZ]:[SWNT], processing conditions, and the addition of additives were also explored.  Films and fibers were produced from the most promising dispersions; the microstructure and antibacterial activity of these bulk materials were characterized.