Pyrolytic-grown B–C–N and BN nanotubes

Abstract

We report the growth of pyrolytic boron–carbon–nitrogen (B–C–N) nanotubes on iron (Fe) and nickel (Ni) catalysts. It was discovered that different catalysts had effect on the elemental compositions of B–C–N nanotubes, which may allow one to tune the transport properties of B–C–N nanotubes in a wide range. A new synthetic route was also developed to generate H3N:BH3 as the precursor and yield boron nitride (BN) nanotubes by pyrolysis. The typical growth scenario of multi-wall BN tubes will be discussed.