Effect of nitriding/nanostructuration of few layer graphene supported iron-based particles; catalyst in graphene etching and carbon nanofilament growth.

Abstract

Stable, highly faceted and dispersed iron nitride particles supported on few layer graphene are obtained by ammonia decomposition on iron-based particles at the temperature commonly used for the synthesis of N-doped CNTs and graphene etching. The TEM/EELS analysis reveals nitrogen diffusion in a bulk of the particles. The resulting facet FeNx catalyst exhibits high activity in the etching of graphene, which is assisted by catalyst reorganization. Ammonia decomposition is used for the first time for graphene etching, while the highly faceted catalyst has an impact on the etched channels structures. According to the shape of the active planes of the catalyst, the etching results in sharp "V" channel ends and often "step-like" edges. The FeNx morphology proves previously reported triangularisation of arches in highly N-doped carbon nanotubes. The conditioning of the catalyst by its shaping and nitrogen incorporation is investigated additionally in the carbon nanostructure formation, for decomposition of ethane. The herringbone CNFs, "hollow" bamboo-like CNFs/CNTs or CNTs are effectively observed.