Investigating the graphitization mechanism of SiO(2) nanoparticles in chemical vapor deposition.
The use of SiO(2) as a catalyst for graphitic nanostructures, such as carbon nanotubes and graphene, is a new and rapidly developing catalyst system. A key question is whether carbide phases form in the reaction. We show the formation of SiC from SiO(2) nanoparticles for the synthesis of graphitic carbon nanostructures via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) at 900 degrees C. Our findings point to the carbothermal reduction of SiO(2) in the CVD reaction. The inclusion of triethyl borate apparently accelerates the process and leads to improved yields. The study helps better understand the growth mechanisms at play in carbon nanotube and carbon nanofiber formation when using SiO(2) catalysts.
Bachmatiuk
Alicja
A
IFW Dresden, 01171 Dresden, Germany. a.bachmatiuk@ifw-dresden.de
Börrnert
Felix
F
Grobosch
Mandy
M
Schäffel
Franziska
F
Wolff
Ulrike
U
Scott
Andrew
A
Zaka
Mujtaba
M
Warner
Jamie H
JH
Klingeler
Rüdiger
R
Knupfer
Martin
M
Büchner
Bernd
B
Rümmeli
Mark H
MH
D003198:Computer Simulation; D003460:Crystallization / Q000379:methods*; D005740:Gases / Q000737:chemistry; D006108:Graphite / Q000737:chemistry*; D046911:Macromolecular Substances / Q000737:chemistry; D008422:Materials Testing; D008956:Models, Chemical; D008968:Molecular Conformation; D049329:Nanostructures / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D036103:Nanotechnology / Q000379:methods*; D010316:Particle Size; D012822:Silicon Dioxide / Q000737:chemistry*; D013499:Surface Properties
D005740:Gases; D046911:Macromolecular Substances; D012822:Silicon Dioxide; D006108:Graphite