Fabrication of PbS nanoparticle coated amorphous carbon nanotubes: Structural, thermal and field emission properties

A simple chemical route for the synthesis of PbS nanoparticle coated amorphous carbon nanotubes (aCNTs) was described. The nanocomposite was prepared from an aqueous suspension of acid functionalized aCNTs, lead acetate (PbAc), and thiourea (TU) at room temperature. The phase formation and composition of the samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive analysis of X-ray studies. The Fourier transformed infrared spectra analysis revealed the attachment of PbS nanoparticles on the acid functionalized aCNT surfaces. Morphology of the samples was analyzed with a field emission scanning electron microscope. UV–Vis study also confirmed the attachment of PbS nanoparticles on the walls of aCNTs. Thermal gravimetric analysis showed that the PbS coated aCNTs are more thermally stable than functionalized aCNTs. The PbS coated aCNTs showed enhanced field emission properties with a turn-on field 3.34 V μm−1 and the result is comparable to that of pure crystalline CNTs.

Graphical abstractSimple chemical synthesis of PbS nanoparticle coated amorphous carbon nanotubes have shown better thermal stability and enhanced electron field emission properties.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► PbS nanocrystals coated amorphous carbon nanotubes have been synthesized through a simple chemical route at low temperature. ► The composite is thermally more stable than amorphous CNTs. ► Composite have shown excellent cold cathode field emission property.