Synthesis of branched Sn/carbon nanotube core/shell structures

Branched Sn/carbon nanotube (CNT) core/shell structures were synthesized by employing the catalytic chemical vapor deposition method over SnO2 nanowires for the first time. Detailed analysis showed that the backbones are mainly composed of CNTs, and the branches have a core/shell structure with a Sn nanowire as the core and a CNT as the shell. The thickness of the carbon layer capped on the Sn nanowires is about 20 nm. The Sn nanowires have lengths of about several micrometers and diameters of about 40 nm. A formation mechanism of the branched nanostructures is suggested.

Graphical AbstractFigure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Branched Sn/carbon nanotube (CNT) core/shell structures were synthesized.
► The microstructures of the branched nanostructures were carefully studied.
► A preliminary growth mechanism was proposed.