Use of Carbon Materials of Different Nature in Determining Metal Concentrations in Carbon Nanotubes by X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry

Abstract

A possibility of studying carbon nanotubes by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry using reference samples prepared from carbon materials more accessible than purified carbon nanotubes (carbon black, Sibunit, and activated carbon) is considered. The optimal state of the sample for analysis (powder or tablet with an inert filler) is determined. Most batches of purified carbon nanotubes (CNTs) contain significant amounts of impurities of the determined metal catalysts, varying from batch to batch, which affects the accuracy and reproducibility of the results of analysis of CNTs. The use of other carbon materials, such as carbon black and activated carbon, for the preparation of reference samples ensures obtaining reliable results even with relatively high degrees of dilution with an inert filler (cellulose) during tablet formation.