Micrometer-sized graphitic balls produced together with single-wall carbon nanohorns

J Phys Chem B. 2005 Jun 2;109(21):10756-9. doi: 10.1021/jp050548y.

Abstract

We present in this report a new type of particles with micrometer-order sizes, which we called giant graphitic balls (GG balls). The GG balls are produced by CO2 laser ablation of graphite together with single-wall carbon nanohorns. They have graphitic structures whose layers tend to align parallel with the GG-ball surfaces, resulting in polygonal-like arrangements. Comparing the GG-ball structure with that of the previously reported polygonal graphite-particles, the growth mechanism of the GG ball is discussed briefly.