Production and measurements of individual single-wall nanotubes and small ropes of carbon

This work focuses on the size and spatial dependence of single-wall carbon nanotubes produced by the pulsed-laser vaporization technique. The study indicates that very long (tens of microns) individual nanotubes form in the vicinity of the target, and subsequently coalesce into bundles. The role of the inner flow tube is confirmed to restrict plume expansion and improve interactions between carbon atoms resulting in nanotube and rope formation. The effect of the flowing buffer gas seems to influence the dispersion of particulate contaminant material in the nanotube product. More particulate matter is produced at lower oven temperatures. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physics.