Multibranched junctions of carbon nanotubes via cobalt particles

Abstract

(Figure Presented) Junctions between different carbon nanotubes are created using cobalt particles as central nodes (see image). The process involves high temperature and electron irradiation of areas where a metal particle is located at the overlapping region of two nanotubes. In situ transmission electron microscopy measurements show that the junctions are electrically conductive and mechanically robust. A high breaking strength of 1-5 GPa is found for the junctions. © 2009 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA.