Synthesis of single-walled carbon nanotubes with nanohorns by are in liquid nitrogen

The catalytic growth of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) with nanohorns by arc in liquid nitrogen (LN) was analyzed. The SWCNTs were obtained as a mixture with nickel (Ni)-included single-walled carbon nanohorns. A bulky deposit and powdery products were found at the cathode tip and reactor bottom, after the evaporation of LN. The high resolution transmission electron microscopy was used for analyzing these products. The results show that a moderate concentration of Ni in the composite anode and a relatively inert environment at the arc zone were essential for the formation of SWCNTs.