Synthesis of WC Nanotubes

A nonaqueous, solvent- and template-free, and straightforward route is described for the synthesis of inorganic WC nanotubes (see figure). The thermal decomposition of W(CO)6 in the presence of Mg powder is carried out at 900 °C under the autogenic pressure of the precursors in a closed Swagelok reactor to yield WC nanotubes for the first time. The reaction mechanism is supported by experimental data.