Fabrication of core-shell structured MWCNT-Ti(TiC) using a one-pot reaction from a mixture of TiCl3, TiH2, and MWCNTs

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) coated with metal titanium or carbide layers were prepared by heating a mixture of TiCl₃, TiH₂, and MWCNTs under vacuum. The resulting MWCNT-Ti(TiC) materials had a uniform and conformal core-shell structure. The thickness of the Ti(TiC) layer was determined by the deposition temperature and time. The amount of TiC in the shell depended primarily on the deposition temperature. Whether a metal or carbide coating was obtained was determined by controlling the deposition temperature. Ti(TiC)-coated MWCNTs showed better field emission properties than did pristine MWCNTs. This deposition method should prove to be a versatile route for fabricating other one-dimensional core-shell materials.