A simple way to CNx/carbon nanotube intramolecular junctions and branches

Large quantities of CNx/carbon nanotube intramolecular junctions were successfully synthesized on a silicon substrate via the chemical vapor deposition method by pyrolysis of ferrocene and melamine. The nanotubes have two apparently different sections, one made of carbon with an empty hollow cylinder structure, and the other made of carbon nitride with a bamboo-like structure. Three- and four-terminal CNx/carbon nanotube intramolecular branches were also observed, and such multi-terminal structures offer potential applications for future nanodevices. A simple model is suggested for the synthesis of these CNx/carbon nanotube intramolecular junctions and branches.