Functionalized nanotubes by wetting of porous templates

The potential of synthesizing functionalized nanotubes by wetting porous templates using melts or solutions that contain polymeric components was discussed. The use of porous membranes as templates was proved to be a feasible and versatile approach for the synthesis. The mixtures containing polymers and large proportions of inorganic components was processed to inorganic nanotubes by transforming the precursor and removing the polymeric component. It was concluded that the exploitation of wetting phenomena have an outstanding potential in providing customized and functionalised nanotubes.