Size dependent conduction characteristics of catalyst-multi-walled carbon nanotube junction

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) grown by chemical vapor deposition retain the residual catalyst particles from which growth occurred, are considered a detriment to MWCNTs’ performance, especially electrical conductivity. The first direct measurements have been made of transport through cap into MWCNT using nanoscale 2-point-probe determine effects particle’s size and diameter ratio with its associated on as compared inherent conductivity MWCNT. is independent size, but (DC/DNT) determines conduction mechanism. Where DC/DNT greater than 1 resulting I–V curve near ohmic, (RC+NT) approaches that (RNT); however, when < curves shift rectifying RC+NT > RNT. experimental results discussed in relation current crowding at interface between nanotube due an increased electric field.