Large-scale synthesis of BN multi-walled nanotube (MWNT) ropes from C MWNT
templates was carried out. A mixture of B2O3 and MoO3 was used as an oxidiz
ing agent during a chemical reaction involving C MWNT oxidation in a flowin
g nitrogen atmosphere at 1773 K. Encapsulation of Mo-based clusters into th
e BN MWNTs was simultaneously achieved. The morphology, atomic structure an
d chemical composition of MWNTs synthesized at 1773 K with and without MoO3
promoter were compared by means of high-resolution transmission electron m
icroscopy and electron energy loss spectroscopy. A striking increase in BN
MWNT yield and self-assemblage of tubes into ropes were discovered under Mo
O3-promoted synthesis. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.