Direct conversion of nickel stearate into carbon nanotubes or pure-phase metallic Ni nanoparticles encapsulated in polyhedral graphite cages

We find that nickel stearate can be directly converted into carbon nanotubes or pure-phase metallic Ni nanoparticles encapsulated in polyhedral carbon cages on pyrolysis under appropriate conditions. This salt conversion approach has two clear advantages for large-scale synthesis of the carbon-metal composite. First, in contrast to the electrical arc discharge technique, it produces 100% yields (with respect to the stoichiometric conversion of nickel) at much lower temperatures (800-1000degreesC). Second, unlike chemical vapour deposition (CVD), this new method does not require a separate carbon feedstock or catalyst support.