Abstract
A method using polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) precursors for synthesizing carbon nanotubes filled with pure copper or germanium is reported. A model is proposed where the interaction of small copper or germanium clusters with PAH molecules is shown to form carbon-encapsulated nanowires. The validity of this model is demonstrated by showing that filled nanotubes are formed in a hydrogen arc which produces PAH molecules when graphite electrodes are used. Alternatively, we have also used pyrene (C16H10), a PAH molecule, to grow encapsulated nanowires directly. No filled nanotubes are found in a helium arc which does not generate PAHs.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 547-553 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Chemical Physics Letters |
Volume | 258 |
Issue number | 5-6 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 23 Aug 1996 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- General Physics and Astronomy
- Physical and Theoretical Chemistry