The importance of H2 in the controlled growth of semiconducting single-wall carbon nanotubes

Abstract

H2 is considered an indispensable component of the atmosphere for the growth of high-quality single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) by chemical vapor deposition. However, details of the roles H2 playing are still unclear due to the complex conditions of SWCNT growth. In this study, we elucidate the functions of H2 in the selective growth of semiconducting SWCNTs (s-SWCNTs) by using monodispersed uniform Fe nanoparticles as a catalyst. High-quality s-SWCNTs were synthesized by finely tuning the concentration of H2 and the other growth parameters. Experimental data combined with atomistic simulations indicate that H2 not only adjusts the concentration of the carbon source, but also serves as a mild etchant that selectively removes small carbon caps grown by a perpendicular mode from the Fe nanoparticles. These results provide useful hints for the controlled growth of SWCNTs with a semiconducting or metallic conductivity, and even a specific chirality.