Characterization and field emission properties of multi-walled carbon nanotubes with fine crystallinity prepared by CO2 laser ablation

► Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were synthesized by irradiating a CO2 laser onto a boron-containing graphite target. ► A large quantity of MWNTs with fine crystalline structure has been obtained at the condition of 760 Torr and room temperature. ► Field emission device with MWNT cathodes indicated sufficient reliability for long term operations.