Epoxidation of Carbon Nanocapsules: Decoration of Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Filled with Metal Halides

Methyl(trifluoromethyl)dioxirane (TFDO) can be used for the oxyfunctionalization of SWCNTs filled with NaI and LuCl₃ under mild conditions. The chosen metal halides are of interest for theranostics, both for imaging and therapy when in their radioactive form. The applied functionalization methodology does not require metal catalyst, preserves the integrity of the nanotubes during treatment, avoiding the release of the filling material. In this way, epoxidation can be considered as an efficient methodology for the functionalization of carbon nanocapsules, where the traditional harsh oxidation conditions by acids are not applicable.