Comparison of structure and conductivity of multiwall carbon nanotubes obtained over Ni and Ni/Fe catalysts

Abstract Multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNT) were produced by pyrolysis of acetonitrile (CH3CN) on metallic particles of Ni and Ni/Fe at 850°C. The special program for statistical treatment of electron micrograph images was developed. Research of diameter distribution of MWNT grown over different catalysts was carried out. Two kinds of carbon nanotubes with different diameter and microstructure are formed on Ni catalyst. The MWNT with smaller diameter and cylindrical packing of layers were found to have the higher conductivity.