PROF 9 |
| Few-walled carbon nanotubes (FWNTs), a unique type of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) with generally two to five layers of sidewalls and diameters less than 10 nm have been synthesized in our lab by a thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. It was found that the FWNTs have enhanced electron field emission characteristics compared to the other types of nanotubes, with a low threshold field for emission and improved emission stability because of their high structural perfection resulting from the high growth temperature. Their high current stability is even better than single walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Moreover, unlike SWNTs, even after covalent functionalization, the FWNTs keep the structural integrity of their inner tubes, thus the FWNTs are believed to be a better candidate for polymer reinforcement than either SWNTs or the more defective MWNTs. So in many aspects, FWNTs are better candidates than both SWNTs and MWNTs for bulk applications. The method of synthesis and purification and the effect of growth conditions on the diameter, structural perfection and number of walls will be discussed. |
|
Progress of Chinese-Americans in Academia
1:00 PM-4:45 PM, Sunday, August 19, 2007 Sheraton Boston -- Back Bay Blrm C, Oral
Division of Professional Relations |