Controlled Synthesis of BN Nanotubes, Nanobamboos, and Nanocables

Nanobamboos have been created by chemical vapor deposition of boron nitride (BN). Strands of nanobamboos (see Figure), nanotubes, or nanocables are formed depending on the oxygen content of the precursor material. An insufficent supply of boron oxide leads to capped (bell) structures, which form in order to minimize the surface energy of the tubular layers.