Graphite polyhedral crystals

Polyhedral nano- and microstructures with shapes of faceted needles, rods, rings, barrels, and double-tipped pyramids, which we call graphite polyhedr al crystals (GPCs), have been discovered. They were found in pores of glass y carbon. They have nanotube cores and graphite faces, and they can exhibit unusual sevenfold, ninefold, or more complex axial symmetry. Although some are giant radially extended nanotubes, Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy suggest GPCs have a degree of perfection higher than i n multiwall nanotubes of similar size. The crystals are up to 1 micrometer in cross section and 5 micrometers in Length, and they can probably be grow n in much Larger sires. Preliminary results suggest a high electrical condu ctivity, strength, and chemical stability of GPC.