Simultaneous growth of three-dimensional carbon nanotubes and ultrathin graphite networks on copper

Abstract

A new way to simultaneously grow carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and ultrathin graphite on copper (Cu) foils has been investigated. This one-step growth process yields three-dimensional networks of CNTs on graphitic layers (3D CNTs/G) on Cu foils. Their synthesis conditions and growth mechanism are discussed in detail taking their structural properties into account. Individual CNTs and the 3D CNTs/G networks by means of an in-situ conductive atomic force microscope inside a scanning electron microscope are electrically characterized. Time-resolved photoluminescence demonstrated fast charge transfer and high carrier collection efficiency superior to two-dimensional ultrathin graphite only. Their facile and tunable growth and excellent electrical properties show that the 3D CNTs/G are strongly attractive for various applications such as solar cells, sensors, supercapacitors, photovoltaics, power generation, and optoelectronics.

Ultra-Broadband and Omnidirectional Perfect Absorber Based on Copper Nanowire/Carbon Nanotube Hierarchical Structure

“…Their growth indeed indicates that Cu NWs exhibit intrinsic high catalytic activity without the need for using an extrinsic catalyst. As Cu catalyst particles (Cu NPs) can be observed at the tip of the CNTs (Figure S2), we postulate a tip-growth type mechanism, contrary to a previously observed root-growth type mechanism for CNTs on a roughened Cu substrate . To the best of our knowledge, only a few publications , have reported self-catalytic growth of CNTs on Cu nanostructures and none of them resulted in such a fine Cu NWs/CNTs/Cu NPs hierarchical structure.…”

“…As Cu catalyst particles (Cu NPs) can be observed at the tip of the CNTs (Figure S2), we postulate a tip-growth type mechanism, contrary to a previously observed root-growth type mechanism for CNTs on a roughened Cu substrate. 49 To the best of our knowledge, only a few publications 50,51 have reported self-catalytic growth of CNTs on Cu nanostructures and none of them resulted in such a fine Cu NWs/CNTs/Cu NPs hierarchical structure. We also note here that the presence of well-dispersed and exposed nanocrystalline Cu active sites could make our high-surface area structure unique for catalytic applications.…”