X-Ray Absorption Spectra of N2 Molecules Embedded into CNx Nanotubes as a Marker of Orientation Ordering of Array

Abstract

Arrays of aligned multi-walled nitrogen-doped carbon (CNx) nanotubes were synthesized by the catalytic chemical vapor deposition method using acetonitrile and a mixture of acetonitrile and toluene taken in equal ratio as sources for nanotube growth. The structure of arrays was investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and angle-resolved X-ray absorption spectroscopy near the CK- and NK-edges. The width of angular distribution of CNx nanotubes in the arrays was determined from the Fourier analysis of SEM images, and the ordering of graphitic layers of nanotubes was evaluated from angular dependence of the π*/σ*-intensity ratio near the CK-edge. It was shown that relative intensity of π*-resonance corresponding to N2 molecules embedded into CNx nanotubes can be used as a marker for definition of the deviation of straight CNx nanotubes from a normal direction.