Web Release Date: June 30,
Dynamical Observation of Bamboo-like Carbon Nanotube Growth
and
Institute of Materials Research and Engineering, 3 Research Link, S11760, Singapore, Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, 3 Science Drive 3, S117543, Singapore, and Department of Physics, National University of Singapore, 2 Science Drive 3, S117542, Singapore
Received March 23, 2007
Revised May 28, 2007
Abstract:
The growth dynamics of bamboo-like multiwalled carbon nanotubes (BCNTs) via catalytic decomposition of C2H2 on Ni catalyst at 650 
C was
observed in real time using an in situ ultrahigh vacuum transmission electron microscope. During BCNT growth, the shape of the catalyst
particle changes constantly but remains metallic and crystalline. Graphene sheets (bamboo knots) within the nanotube preferentially nucleate
on the multistep Ni-graphite edges at the point where the graphene joins the catalyst particle, where it is stabilized by both the graphene
walls and the Ni catalyst surface. The growth of a complete inner graphene layer growth prior to contraction of the Ni catalyst particle due
to restoring cohesive forces will result in a complete BCNT knot whereas partial growth of the inner wall will lead to an incomplete BCNT knot.
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