Template synthesis and characterization of well-aligned carbon nanotubes by carbonization of polyparaphenylene

Abstract

The synthesis of well -aligned carbon nanotubes by pyrolysis of polyparaphenylene on alumina membrane template is described here. The prepared nanotubes have been characterized by electron microscopic analyses, Raman spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry. Scanning electron micrographs and transmission electron micrographs reveal the hollow structure and

vertically aligned features of the nanotubes. The surface morphology of the nanotubes has been studied by atomic force microscopy. Raman spectrum shows characteristic bands at 1384 cm^-1 (D-band) and 1603 cm^-1 (G-band) indicating well graphitized nanotubes. The electrochemical behavior of the synthesized carbon nanotube film coated with glassy carbon electrode shows fast electron transfer and higher current response. The well -aligned carbon nanotube arrays can have potential applications in lithium-ion battery and other fields.