RNA is used to purify carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in a simple, two-step method that does not require a time-intensive process or harsh chemical or physical treatments. The purity of the RNA-purified CNTs is demonstrated by a variety of physical characterization methods such as AFM (see figure), confirming that treatment of the RNA-wrapped CNTs with ribonuclease A effectively removes the RNA, allowing subsequent recovery of pure CNTs.