Transformation of multi walled carbon nanotubes irradiated by swift heavy ions

The radiation stability of multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) buckypaper (BP) has been studied under extreme conditions. Samples of thick mat of MWCNT, called buckypaper, have been prepared by vacuum filtration method and were irradiated by 120 MeV Au ions with fluences ranging from 3 × 1011 ions/cm2 to 5 × 1013 ions/cm2. The samples were characterized by Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HRTEM) and Raman spectroscopy. The surface imaging studies indicate the decrease in the average diameter of nanotubes under ion irradiation due to the sputtering of atoms from the CNT surface. Raman studies demonstrate initial healing at lower fluence, defect production at higher fluences and amorphization at highest fluence.