Synthesis of carbon nanostructures by graphite deformation during mechanical milling in air

Abstract

In this investigation, time-dependent carbon nanostructures were prepared by high-energy ball milling in the air from elemental graphite powders. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy (RS), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) characterized the ball-milled powders. XRD analysis showed that the crystal size decreased with the milling time. Raman spectra confirmed the presence of carbon nanostructures with sp2 hybridization. Meanwhile, HRTEM images revealed different carbon morphologies during the milling time. During the different stages, it appears distortion of layers, large tapes, polyhedral morphologies, nanocapsules, and nano-onions. These carbon nanostructures occur in regions where there is carbon accumulation. In this way, the ball milling process in air conditions can promote distorted carbon and different morphologies.