Abstract: In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides methods for fabricating carbon nanotube films. Such methods generally comprise: (i) suspending carbon nanotubes in a superacid (e.g. chloro sulfonic acid) to form a dispersed carbon nanotube-superacid solution, wherein the carbon nanotubes have substantially exposed sidewalls in the carbon nanotube-superacid solution; (ii) applying the dispersed carbon nanotube-superacid solution onto a surface to form a carbon nanotube film; and (iii) removing the superacid. Desirably, such methods occur without the utilization of carbon nanotube wrapping molecules or sonication. Further embodiments of the present disclosure pertain to carbon nanotube films that are fabricated in accordance with the methods of the present disclosure. Such carbon nanotube films comprise a plurality of carbon nanotubes that are dispersed and individualized.

Abstract: In some embodiments, the present disclosure pertains to methods of making carbon foams. In some embodiments, the methods comprise: (a) dissolving a carbon source in a superacid to form a solution; (b) placing the solution in a mold; and (c) coagulating the carbon source in the mold. In some embodiments, the methods of the present disclosure further comprise a step of washing the coagulated carbon source. In some embodiments, the methods of the present disclosure further comprise a step of lyophilizing the coagulated carbon source. In some embodiments, the methods of the present disclosure further comprise a step of drying the coagulated carbon source. In some embodiments, the methods of the present disclosure also include steps of infiltrating the formed carbon foams with nanoparticles or polymers. Further embodiments of the present disclosure pertain to the carbon foams formed by the aforementioned methods.