Abstract
A novel method of precise and controlled cutting of CNTs into pieces is presented in this letter. Sidewalls of CNTs covered by an organo-halogen such as polyvinylidene fluoride and trifluoroethylene P(VDF/TrFE) were cut by conventional transmission electron microscopy. Bombardment of CNT/P(VDF/TrFE) nanocomposite with an energetic TEM electron beam was found to effect a breakage of the molecular chain bonds of the P(VDF/TrFE) copolymer. This is due to the creation of instability and weakness under electron beam bombardments. The copolymer is locally heated and decomposed. During this process, radicals and instantaneous new bonds of HF gas, which is strong acid, were formed. Predominating chemical reactions attack and open the CNT's bonds. With this reproducible and controllable method1 desirable lengths of CNT could be obtained with an error estimated at ±3 nm. The P(VDF/TrFE) layer could play a further role in protecting and isolating CNTs in electronic circuits.
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