Kang, Minsung Shin, Jong Chan Jeon Yong Tae Im, Ik-Tae Jang, Se Gyu Lee, Minjae Ahn, Seok hoon 2025-09-23T05:00:14Z 2025-09-23T05:00:14Z 2025-09-21 2026-01 0169-4332 https://pubs.kist.re.kr/handle/201004/153223 Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) possess outstanding thermal properties and biocompatibility, yet their limited dispersibility in polar media such as polyethylene glycol (PEG) hinders their processability and application in composite materials and biomedical fields. In this study, a modified PEG-based block copolymer incorporating a pyrrolidinium salt capable of interacting with BNNT surfaces to give a repulsion force between BNNTs was developed to address this challenge. Benzamide and PEG segments along the modified PEG backbone interact with BNNT surfaces, enabling selective adsorption, whereas the pyrrolidinium N+/Br？ ion pair imparts electrostatic repulsion and steric stabilization, thereby maintaining excellent dispersion stability for up to 7 days. The centrifugation enabled a high purification efficiency of up to 92 %, indicating successful removal of residual impurities. Notably, the concentrated BNNTs paste derived from the purified solution exhibited potential liquid crystalline behavior, suggesting a high degree of alignment and interaction between nanotubes. These results demonstrate a versatile and scalable strategy for producing high-purity, functionalized BNNTs, offering a promising platform for advanced applications in BNNT-based nanocomposites, including bioelectronics, thermal interface materials, and biomedical systems. English Elsevier BV Enhanced purification and dispersion techniques for boron nitride nanotubes by introducing repulsive sites in polyethylene glycol block copolymer Article 10.1016/j.apsusc.2025.164579 1 Applied Surface Science, v.715 Applied Surface Science 715 N scie scopus 001583439800008 Chemistry, Physical Materials Science, Coatings & Films Physics, Applied Physics, Condensed Matter Chemistry Materials Science Physics Article SCALE PRODUCTION CARBON COMPOSITE Boron nitride nanotubes Polyethylene glycol Ionic repulsion force Purification Dispersion Functionalization