PLD growth of CNTs using a nanostuctured Ni buffer layer: Dependence of H2 partial pressure

The effect of hydrogen partial pressure on the growth of CNT thin films using on-axis PLD has been studied. Using nickel as buffer layer, carbon nanotubes can be produced with good yield in Hydrogen atmosphere. We have found strong visible-near infrared (NIR) photoluminescence (PL) from carbon nanotube thin films synthesized under various hydrogen partial pressures. The present result shows that bright, narrow PL from CNTs can be obtained without any post growth processing. © 2007 Materials Research Society.