Catalytic Synthesis of Boron Nitride Nanotubes at Low Temperatures

What is it about?

KFeO2 is demonstrated for efficiency catalysing the formation of BN nanotubes (BNNT) by thermal chemical vapor deposition (TCVD). This alkali-based catalyst enables the formation of crystalline and high aspect ratio, multi-walled BNNTs at temperatures as low as 750° C, significantly lower than those typical of production by TCVD.

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Why is it important?

The procedure underlined in this paper allows the manufacturing of BNNTs at moderately low temperatures (in the range of pyrolysis temperature for carbon). This achievement increases the applicability of BNNTs on different carbon based substrates such as carbon fibers, CNTs, Graphenes that would degrade at 1300-1500oC (conventional synthesis temperature)