Synthesis and characterization of 3D double branched K junction carbon nanotubes and nanorods

Carbon nanobelts, highly branched carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon nanorods (CNRs) were synthesized by the catalytic pyrolysis of acetylene using Fe-catalyst at different temperatures. The 3D double branched K junction and various 2D single branched Y, L, T junctions on CNTs and CNRs were characterized by SEM, TEM, and Raman spectroscopy. The bamboo shaped hollow interior of the K junction indicated a possible growth mechanism of the CNTs. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.