Synthesis of Boron Nitride Nanotubes and Boron Nitride Nanoflakes with Potential Application in Bioimaging

Abstract

Hexagonal boron nitride (BN) is structural analogues to graphitic structure of carbon. Similar to graphene and carbon nanotubes, BN also has nanosheets structure, also known as white graphene and nanotubes structure. These BN nanostructures show excellent properties, such as high stability, mechanical strength and resistant to chemicals. Synthesis of BN nanosheets is easier as compared to synthesis of its 1D nanostructure due its hexagonal layered structure, in which stacks are attached with each other by weak Van der Waals forces. In the present work, synthesis and applications of 1D and 2D nanostructures are discussed. Growth of BN nanotubes on tungsten substrate was performed by using copper as catalyst with a simple and easy method. Synthesis of fluorescent BN nanoflakes was performed using solid precursor, boric oxide and urea for boron and nitrogen, in a high-temperature furnace under argon atmosphere. The product was ultrasonicated in water to get completely stable dispersion of fluorescent nanoflakes as final product. Both The product was then characterized by FESEM, TEM, FTIR. The fluorescence behaviour of BN nanoflakes was also measure and applied for bioimaging of breast cancer cells (MCF-7).