Catalytic conversion of graphene into carbon nanotubes via gold nanoclusters at low temperatures

ACS Nano. 2012 Jan 24;6(1):501-11. doi: 10.1021/nn203836q. Epub 2011 Dec 21.

Abstract

Here, we present the catalytic conversion of graphene layers into carbon nanotubes (CNTs), in the presence of Au nanoparticles (AuNPs) without the need for an additional carbon source. We have demonstrated that this catalytic process takes place at temperatures as low as 500 °C. No other oxide supports decorated with AuNPs were found to grow CNTs at this temperature. These findings highlight the high activity of graphene when used as a support for catalytic reactions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Catalysis
  • Cold Temperature
  • Crystallization / methods*
  • Gold / chemistry*
  • Graphite / chemistry*
  • Macromolecular Substances / chemistry
  • Materials Testing
  • Molecular Conformation
  • Nanotubes, Carbon / chemistry*
  • Nanotubes, Carbon / ultrastructure*
  • Particle Size
  • Surface Properties
  • Temperature

Substances

  • Macromolecular Substances
  • Nanotubes, Carbon
  • Gold
  • Graphite