Novel SiOx-coated carbon nanotubes

Abstract

A room temperature colloidal method for coating carbon nanotubes with silicon oxide is described. Morphology, chemical composition and SiOx/C interfaces of the coatings were investigated using state-of-the-art transmission electron microscopy and high spatially resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy. The amorphous SiOx coatings exhibit a thickness of up to 10 nm. In addition, coatings were also created by a high temperature route. However, they tend to be more unstable and spallate when compared to coatings deposited at room temperature.