STM observation of asymmetrical Y-branched carbon nanotubes and nano-knees produced by the arc discharge method

The scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) observation of arc-grown Y-branched carbon nanotubes and sharp nanotube bends (nano-knees) is reported. A drilled out graphite rod filled with a nickel/yttrium particle mixture was used as the anode in an arc chamber under He atmosphere of 660-mbar pressure. Straight multi-wall nanotubes, Y-branches and nano-knees were found in a sample taken from the cathodic deposit. The asymmetrical Y-branches and complex nano-knees found in this experiment may be related to the additional use of metals or/and to induced changes of the temperature distribution on the cathode side. It is suggested that complex nano-knees could be new examples for carbon quantum dots.