Synthesis and application of iron-filled carbon nanotubes coated with FeCo alloy nanoparticles

FeCo alloy nanoparticles were coated onto the iron-filled carbon nanotubes by an electroless plating method. As-prepared samples were then annealed at different temperatures. The morphologies and structures of the samples were characterized, and the relationship between the soft magnetic properties and the Fe/Co ratios of the samples was established. The microwave absorbing characteristics of the samples were also evaluated. The results show that the soft magnetic characteristics of iron-filled carbon nanotubes can be improved after being coated with FeCo alloy nanoparticles and then heat treated, which results in more effective microwave absorption. (C) 2008 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.