Controlled 3D Carbon Nanotube Structures by Plasma Welding

Abstract

3D interconnected carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are synthesized using an industrially scalable spark plasma technique. At high electric field and elevated temperature under sufficient stress the nanotubes are welded together to form a solid block. The detailed spectroscopic and microscopic analyses show successful welding of the CNTs and formation of interconnected networks. The mechanical characteristics of the 3D CNT block show a high stiffness and yield strength. A full atomistic molecular dynamics simulation elucidates the CNT welding mechanism. As a service to our authors and readers, this journal provides supporting information supplied by the authors. Such materials are peer reviewed and may be re-organized for online delivery, but are not copy-edited or typeset. Technical support issues arising from supporting information (other than missing files) should be addressed to the authors. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.