Generating of spatial formations composed of carbon atoms as fullerenes and nanotubes type by applying of pulsed electrical discharges to the formation of graphite films on metallic surfaces

Abstract

The present paper presents the results of experimental researchings concerning the technology for obtaining the graphite films on metallic surfaces by applying the method of electric pulsed discharges (DEI). It was established that the efficiency for the graphite film obtaining is according with the conecting mode for the workpiece subjected to treatment of electric pulsed discharges to the polarity of the electric pulse generator. Thin pellicles obtained after the electric pulsed discharges treatment, contain mostly carbon, but after of detailed and special analysis (termogravimetric analyses, electronic microscopy SEM and chemical analyses), it was found that different chemical forms of carbon other of graphite are generated. They are spatial formations made of carbon atoms the type of fullerenes and carbon nanotubes. This occurance explains the special functional properties of graphite films and that is to encapsulate small molecules such as N2 in the case of fullerenes, or organic molecules in case of nanotubes with single wall.