Hidden features of the catalyst nanoparticles favorable for single-walled carbon nanotube growth

Combining in situ studies of the catalyst activity during single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) growth by mass spectrometry with differential scanning calorimetry and Raman spectroscopy results, the authors expose the favorable features of small catalyst for SWCNT growth and their relationship with synthesis parameters. The sequential introduction of C12 and C13 labeled hydrocarbon reveals the influence of catalyst composition on its lifetime and the growth termination path. Ab initio and molecular dynamics simulations corroborate “V”-shape liquidus line of metal-carbon nanoparticle binary phase diagram, which explains observed carbon-induced solid-liquid-solid phase transitions during nanotube growth.