Effective Synthesis of Silicon Carbide Nanotubes by Microwave Heating of Blended Silicon Dioxide and Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotube

Abstract

Silicon carbide nanotube (SiCNTs) has been proven as a suitable material for wide applications in high power, elevated temperature and harsh environment. For the first time, we reported in this article an effective synthesis of SiCNTs by microwave heating of SiO 2 and MWCNTs in molar ratio of 1:1, 1:3, 1:5 and 1:7. Blend of SiO 2 and MWCNTs in the molar ratio of 1:3 was proven to be the most suitable for the high yield synthesis of β-SiCNTs as confirmed by X-ray diffraction pattern. Only SiCNTs were observed from the blend of MWCNTs and SiO 2 in the molar ratio of 1:3 from field emission scanning electron microscopy imaging. High magnification transmission electron microscopy showed that tubular structure of MWCNT was preserved with the inter-planar spacing of 0.25 nm. Absorption bands of Si-C bond were detected at 803 cm -1 in Fourier transform infrared spectrum. Thermal gravimetric analysis revealed that SiCNTs from ratio of 1:3 showed the lowest weight loss. Thus, our synthetic process indicates high yield conversion of SiO 2 and MWCNTs to SiCNTs was achieved for blend of SiO 2 and MWCNTs in molar ratio of 1:3.

Rice husk/rice husk ash as an alternative source of silica in ceramics: A review

“…Many modifications have since been made for industrialization of this route through different studies. Recently, microwave heating is utilized to fabricate SiC [102][103][104]. Different catalyst activities for the formation of SiC have also been investigated in several studies [105].…”

Sustainable ceramics derived from solid wastes: a review

“…After that, many modifications have been made by several researchers for industrialization of this process. Recently, microwave heating and different catalyst activities have been investigated for the preparation of SiC from RH through different studies [202][203][204][205]. Certain metallic catalysts (Co, Fe, Pd, Ni, and Cr) are significantly enhanced the reaction kinetic between SiO 2 and C in the temperature at 1200-1600°C.…”