Selective synthesis of boron nitride nanotubes by self-propagation high-temperature synthesis and annealing process

Four types of BN nanotubes are selectively synthesized by annealing porous precursor in flowing NH3 and NH3/H2 atmosphere at temperature ranging from 1000 to 1200 °C in a vertical furnace. The as-synthesized BN nanotubes, including cylinder, wave-like, bamboo-like and bubble-chain, are characterized by XRD, FTIR, Raman, SEM, TEM and HRTEM. Three phenomenological growth models are proposed to interpret growth scenario and structure features of the four types of BN nanotubes. Selectivity of nanotubes formation is estimated as approximately 80–95%. The precursor containing B, Mg, Fe and O prepared by self-propagation high-temperature synthesis (SHS) method plays a key role in selective synthesis of the as-synthesized BN nanotubes. Chemical reactions are also discussed.

Graphical AbstractFour types of BN nanotubes are selectively synthesized by annealing porous precursor prepared by self-propagation high-temperature synthesis. Three phenomenological growth models are proposed to reveal growth scenario and characteristics of the as-synthesized BN nanotubes.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Four types of BN nanotubes are selectively synthesized by annealing porous precursor. ► Selectivity of BN nanotubes formation is estimated as approximately 80–95 wt%. ► Three growth models are proposed to interpret growth of the as-synthesized BN nanotubes. ► The precursor prepared by SHS method plays a key role in selective synthesis process.