Bulk synthesis of carbon-filled silicon carbide nanotubes with a narrow diameter distribution

We report on a simple and low-cost route to produce SiC nanotubes without the need for the more usual oxide based reactions using a high temperature substitution reaction between multiwall carbon nanotubes as a frame and Si powder. Local scale studies using transmission and scanning electron microscopy are also presented. The SiC nanotubes are carbon filled and open ended. Both their mean diameter and diameter distribution are smaller than previously reported for SiC nanotubes. Bulk scale studies using Raman and infrared as a probe showed the sample to be comprised of multiple polytypes and that finite size effects are present. (C) 2005 American Institute of Physics.