Formation Mechanisms for Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes

Single wall nanotubes have been demonstrated to have remarkable physical properties: Youngs Modulus of >ITPa; breaking strength of 100 G ~ and metallic conductivity. The most perfect examples of them have been produce~ via laser ablation or arc-discharge processes [1,2]. These processes are characterized by theft low productivity, of the order of grams per day per unit, and they are generally agreed not to be scaleable. Development of a viable low cost manufacturing p r ~ requires an understanding of formation mechanisms, and Electron Microscopy provides some useful insigh~ Four separate stages have been identified in the formation process, each with its own characteristics: