Controlled 3D carbon nanotube structures by plasma welding

Abstract

3D interconnected carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are synthesized using an industrially scalable spark plasma technique. At high electric field and elevated temperature under sufficient stress the nanotubes are welded together to form a solid block. The detailed spectroscopic and microscopic analyses show successful welding of the CNTs and formation of interconnected networks. The mechanical characteristics of the 3D CNT block show a high stiffness and yield strength. A full atomistic molecular dynamics simulation elucidates the CNT welding mechanism

3D interconnected carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are synthesized using an industrially scalable spark plasma technique. At high electric field and elevated temperature under sufficient stress the nanotubes are welded together to form a solid block. The detailed spectroscopic and microscopic analyses show successful welding of the CNTs and formation of interconnected networks. The mechanical characteristics of the 3D CNT block show a high stiffness and yield strength. A full atomistic molecular dynamics simulation elucidates the CNT welding mechanism.