Synthesis of single-wall carbon nanotubes by excimer laser ablation

We report the KrF excimer laser ablation of carbonaceous targets in an innovative laser ablation chamber. The targets have been prepared using a new approach, without pressing or hot pressing of the composition. The Co/Ni doped target has yielded single-wall carbon nanotubes with a narrow diameter distribution. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy has been used along with the confocal Raman microscopy to characterize the products obtained. Thermogravimetric analysis confirms the presence of multiple carbonaceous species with different oxidation temperatures.