Synthesis of CNx Nanotubes Catalyzed by Ferrocene

CNx nanotubes have been synthesized by thermal decomposition of ferrocene/ethylenediamine (Fe(C5H5)2/C2H8N2) mixture using ferrocene as the catalyst at 800~1040℃. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Raman spectroscopic were used to characterize the CNx nantoubes produced at different temperatures, whose yields were also investigated. It is shown that the CNx nanotubes have bamboolike structure, and the average diameter, crystallinity and yields increase with the temperature increasing. X-ray photoelectron spectrum (XPS) revealed the nitrogen incorporation of the CNx nanotubes. The catalysis mechanism of ferrocene in the growth of the CNx nanotubes is also discussed.