Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have drawn great attention since they
were found at first in1991 [1] because of their marvelous structure,
high stability,and excellent conductivity or semiconductivity [2].
Numerous studies have been devoted to investigation of stable
structures of non–carbonnanotubes.
Among these structures, the
III–V analogs of carbon nanotubes such as boron-nitride nanotubes
(BNNTs) and aluminum-nitride nanotubes (AlNNTs) are of great importance [3–5].
These nanotubes are wide-band gap semiconduc-
tors which are known by high temperature stability,considerable
thermal conductivity,low thermal expansion,resistance to chemi-
cals and gases used in semiconductor processing and reliable
dielectric properties [6].
However,the relatively large band gap
has imposed great limitations to the applications of AlNNTs and
BNNTs [7].
Unfortunately,poor solubility and difficulties of purifying
and processing have hampered the future applicationofIII–V
nanotubes [8].
Now,chemically modified (i.e.,functionalized) nano-
tubes are being extensively promoted as one of the solutions to
overcome these problems.
Chemical functionalization is a commonly used method to
tailor the physical and chemical properties of nanotubes.