Synthesis and characterization of SWCNTs with Ho/Ni as catalyst

SWCNTs were synthesized with high yield by DC arc discharge using Ho/Ni as catalysts. The morphologies, diameter distribution and the content of SWCNTs in the products were characterized by SEM, Raman scattering and TGA. Results indicate that SWCNTs can be efficiently synthesized with Ho/Ni as catalysts. The volume content of SWCNTs in a "web-like" form is as high as 80% in the product. Furthermore, the diameter distribution of SWCNTs, estimated by analyzing the resonance Raman scattering using excitation wavelengths of 632 and 488 nm, varies from 1.35 to 1.69 nm with a dominant diameter of 1.5 nm, which is different from that of the SWCNTs synthesized with Ce/Ni as catalyst, proving that the diameter distribution of SWCNTs is dependent on the properties of the metal catalysts.