Preparation, characterization, and analytical applications of a novel polymer stationary phase with embedded or grafted carbon fibers

A polymer-based chromatographic stationary phase with embedded or grafted multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) has been developed. Three different synthetic methods were utilized to combine the nano-fibers with the substrate of polystyrene–divinylbenzene (PS–DVB). After optimizing the synthetic conditions, this novel polystyrene–divinylbenzene–carbon nanotube (PS–DVB–CNT) stationary phase was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, chemical adsorption and desorption measurement, and mechanical stability test. Compared to PS–DVB particles, PS–DVB–CNT particles have certain improvement in physical and chromatographic performances because the addition of MWCNTs has altered the structures of the particles. The novel stationary phase owns satisfactory resolution, wide pH endurance, and long lifetime, which can be used as an extent to normal HPLC.