Synthesis of BxCyNz nanotubules

Abstract

We report the successful synthesis of ${\mathrm{B}}_{\mathit{x}}$ ${\mathrm{C}}_{\mathit{y}}$ ${\mathrm{N}}_{\mathit{z}}$ nanotubes. Arc-discharge methods were used to produce stable nanotubule structures identified by high-resolution transmission-electron microscopy. Local electron-energy-loss spectroscopy of K-edge absorptions for B, C, and N atoms was used to determine the atomic compositions of individual tubules. Tubes of stoichiometry ${\mathrm{BC}}_2$N and ${\mathrm{BC}}_3$ have been observed, in agreement with theoretical predictions.