The influence of electric fields on self-organization processes in an ultradispersed solution of multi-walled carbon nanotubes

The influence of the electric field on the ordering processes in sediments of an ultradispersed solution of functionalized carbon nanotubes is investigated. The features and regularities of self-assembling and/or self-organization, leading to the formation of linear, fractal, and cluster substrates are examined via confocal (with video recording) and atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, as well as via IR Fourier spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. It is established that dimensions of fractal structures decrease inversely to the electric field strength and their growth rate is a quadratic function of strength. Single-walled carbon nanotubes with metallic and semiconducting conductivities are detected and characterized with respect to chirality inside linear and cluster structures.