Metallization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes with copper by an electroless deposition process

An advantageous procedure has been developed, allowing metallization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs, mean diameter: 50-80 nm) with Cu layer by an electroless deposition process. Such a procedure for achieving electroless Cu deposition on MWCNTs involves acid pre-clean, sensitization and activation. Results show that metallizated MWCNTs keep the fiber-like appearances with uniform distribution. This resulting nanotube-derived material is comprised of a nanocrocrystalline Cu layer and inner nanotube covered with Cu layer. The results of this work have demonstrated the effectiveness of electroless deposition on the metallization of MWCNTs. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.