Effect of growth conditions on B-doped carbon nanotubes

The modified arc-discharge technique was used for the growth of boron-doped multiwalled carbon nanotubes. A variety of weight percentages of boron and sulfur were mixed (0.5–15 wt%) with graphite powder and packed in the consumable anode. Transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS) were used to characterize the samples. EELS indicated a small percentage of boron present (<1 at.%) in the nanotubes. Sulfur was used primarily to enhance boron incorporation; however, Raman and TGA measurements indicated fewer defects and/or amorphous material present when sulfur was added.