Integrating Research and Education: A Laboratory Module on Fabricating Electroactive Carbon Nanotube Membrane for Environmental Functional Materials Education

Bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and classroom practice, this work presents a laboratory module that introduces students to environmental functional materials through the fabrication and application of electroactive carbon nanotube (CNT) membranes. Designed for master’s and advanced undergraduate students, the module guides learners through a complete research-inspired workflow: synthesizing freestanding CNT membranes via vacuum filtration, characterizing their physicochemical properties using electron microscopy and spectroscopy, assessing electrochemical activity via cyclic voltammetry, and evaluating environmental performance through the degradation of methyl orange─a model organic pollutant. The integrated, hands-on experience enables students to explore core concepts in electrochemistry, materials science, and environmental catalysis within a cohesive, visually intuitive system. By systematically connecting synthesis, characterization, and application, students develop a deeper understanding of the structure–function–performance relationship that governs functional materials while cultivating essential skills in data interpretation and interdisciplinary problem-solving.