The processing of one-dimensional nanomaterials, such as carbon-nanotubes, is generally hampered by the fact that they are insoluble. By conducting sedimentation experiments on Mo6S4.5I4.5 nanowires in isopropanol we show that a significant portion (approximate to12wt%) of the as-produced material is soluble as small diameter nanowire bundles. Using this technique, as a purification procedure, high purity Mo6S4.5I4.5 nanowire dispersions can be produced with concentrations as high as 0.34 mg/ml. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.