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    At the cutting edge : structural analysis and chemical modification of the edges of mechanically cleaved graphene nanoribbons : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Nanoscience at Massey University, Manawatū, New Zealand
    (Massey University, 2017) Dykstra, Haidee Michaela
    The first decade of the new carbon nanomaterial graphene has been a time of great discovery and excitement as the exceptional properties of this material were uncovered and its promise for numerous applications realised. The unique properties of graphene, including its exceptional electronic structure, are now well-established, and investigations into how these properties can be manipulated and exploited are rapidly taking off. This research contributes to the emerging field by exploring the structure and chemistry of the edges of mechanically cleaved graphene nanoribbons; groundwork for the future development of edge-modified nanoribbons that could be used to form selfassembled graphene nanoribbon composite structures with potential for devices in solar energy conversion. For this purpose, a Raman microscope was built that enabled for various aspects of the structure of graphene nanoribbons to be probed, in particular the geometry and smoothness of the edges, which have important implications for the specific reactivity of the edge carbon atoms. Chemical approaches for the specific functionalisation of the edges of the nanoribbons were developed, involving reactions tailored to the reactive groups present at the edges, and these were found to be highly successful and selective.
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    Investigation of carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotube cytotoxicity in vitro : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Masters of Science in Physiology at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
    (Massey University, 2010) Gilmour, Aaron David
    Carbon nanotubes have been idealised as carrier vehicles for cell targeted drug and gene delivery. The physiochemical properties of the carbon nanotube also promote its function as a „thermal antennae‟ for non-invasive cancer destruction. Covalent modification of carbon nanotubes is a result of acidic purification resulting in carboxylated carbon nanotubes. Additionally this covalent modification allows for the attachment of biological moieties for cell targeting. Conversely, carboxylated carbon nanotubes are suggested to be cytotoxic to mammalian cells. The current study investigates the potential cytotoxicity of short, carboxylated, multi-walled carbon nanotubes in vitro, in a primary fibroblast cell culture model. Cytotoxicity is assessed with vital staining using propidium iodide, and secondly with a lactate dehydrogenase colorimetric assay. Results indicate that there is a dose dependent cytotoxic relationship between the carboxylated multi-walled carbon nanotubes tested and the fibroblast cell culture model.