Pyrolytically grown BxCyNz nanomaterials: Nanofibres and nanotubes

Pyrolysis of CH3CN . BCl3 at ca. 900-1000 degrees C over Co powder generates novel graphitic BxCyNz nanofibres and nanotubes possessing a range of morphologies (e.g, curled, branched and bent). In these experiments the metal particles play an important role in the growth since nanotube formation appears to occur at the metal surface. High resolution electron microscopy (HRTEM) and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) studies suggest that the stoichiometry of the filaments is ca. [BC2Nz](n) (z = 0.3-0.6). Higher relative concentrations of carbon occur at the tips where the metal particle is found. A possible growth mechanism for these new materials is proposed.