Local TEM spectroscopic studies on carbon- and boron nitride-based nanomaterials

Abstract

In this chapter we review the current status of research on local spectroscopic studies of carbon-based and related nanomaterials (CB-RNM) carried out by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). These nanomaterials include pure carbon nanostructures (fullerenes, nanotubes, nanodiamonds, and graphene) as well as related ones having the same structure but including dopant atoms or pure counterparts (like boron nitride). Electron energy-loss spectroscopy (EELS) and more recent cathodoluminescence local TEM measurements aiming at exploring the atomic composition and physical (optical, electronic, vibrational) properties of these materials will be reviewed.