Heterojunctions between metals and carbon nanotubes as ultimate nanocontacts.

ABSTRACT: We report the controlled formation and characterization of heterojunctions between carbon nanotubes and different metal nanocrystals (Fe, Co, Ni, and FeCo). The heterojunctions are formed from metal-filled multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) via intense electron beam irradiation at temperatures in the range of 450-700 degrees C and observed in situ in a transmission electron microscope. Under irradiation, the segregation of metal and carbon atoms occurs, leading to the formation of heterojunctions between metal and graphite. Metallic conductivity of the metal-nanotube junctions was found by using in situ transport measurements in an electron microscope. Density functional calculations show that these structures are mechanically strong, the bonding at the interface is covalent, and the elect

SUBMITTER: Rodriguez-Manzo JA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2660775 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature