The growth of single-wall carbon nanotubes through adduction of small carbo
n clusters is studied using a molecular-dynamics simulation method. The per
fection of the tubes grown depends on the collisional direction, the growth
temperature, and the cluster species involved. Narrow single-wall carbon n
anotubes can grow without existence of catalysts under controlled condition
s. C-2, colliding with the side wall of the tubes, can be assembled into th
e network forming localized defects during annealing. (C) 1999 Elsevier Sci
ence B.V. All rights reserved.