Observation and formation mechanism of individual graphene foils inside multi-walled carbon nanotubes

The formation of individual graphene foils (GF) has been evidenced in the present study inside multi-walled carbon nanotubes. The graphene foils are attached on one side to a catalyst nanoparticle and on the other side to the internal walls of the nanotube. Moreover, results suggest that a necking process occurs in which internal carbon walls are deformed until formation of the graphene foil. A possible mechanism for the GF formation is then proposed.

Synopsis: model of the graphene foil (GF) formation: (a) onset of the CNT internal walls necking, (b) walls collapse into a GF and (c) GF breaking.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideResearch highlights
► Formation of individual graphene foils inside multi-walled carbon nanotubes.
► Graphene foils are attached on one side to a catalyst nanoparticle.
► Mechanism for the graphene foils formation is proposed.