Synthesis of refractory conductive niobium carbide nanowires within the inner space of carbon nanotube templates

摘要

Conductive niobium carbide (NbC) nanowires with diameters of 1-3 nm were synthesized within the inner space of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by exposing the CNTs to niobium (V) chloride vapor through hydrogen reduction. The NbC nanowires were found to have a NaCI-type crystal structure by transmission electron microscopy and transmission electron diffractometry. Results from electronic transport measurements imply that the electrical conductivity of the synthesized product was improved compared with that of empty CNTs.