Efficient functionalization of carbon nanohorns via microwave irradiation

Multifunctionalization of carbon nanohorns (CNHs) is easily achieved by microwave activation. We describe an efficient strategy to produce multifunctionalized CNHs using a combination of two different addition reactions, the 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition of azomethine ylides, in solvent-free conditions, and the addition of diazonium salts in water, both via a simple and fast microwave-induced method. The new CNH derivatives are soluble in common solvents as well as in water. The doubly functionalized CNHs may be valuable new tools for many interesting applications