Brian Moses

Abstract

Single walled carbon nanotubes are produced using standard synthesis and purification techniques. Bulk materials produced using filtration drying are characterized mechanically and electrically for engineering properties. Modifications to the purification process are explored with consideration given for the effects on electrical conductivity and mechanical strength. Raman spectroscopy, thermal oxidation profiling, and high-temperature vacuum annealing are used to gain further insight on the connection between defects and nanotube oxidation during the purification process. It is observed that the mechanical properties are strongly temperature dependent, while electrical conductivity varies with humidity rather than temperature. The use of a thermal vacuum anneal can improve separation of oxidative processes between nanotubes and carbon in the time domain, allowing further optimization of the thermal processing and improved physical properties of nanotube bulk materials post-processing.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Nanotubes--Mechanical properties; Nanotubes--Materials; Surface chemistry

Publication Date

7-28-2010

Document Type

Thesis

Department, Program, or Center

Manufacturing and Mechanical Engineering Technology (CAST)

Advisor

Raffaelle, Ryne

Advisor/Committee Member

Stevens, Robert

Advisor/Committee Member

Weinstein, Steven

Comments

Note: imported from RIT’s Digital Media Library running on DSpace to RIT Scholar Works. Physical copy available through RIT's The Wallace Library at: TA418.9.N35 M67 2010

Campus

RIT – Main Campus

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