Evolution of multiwalled carbon-nanotube/SiO₂ composites via laser treatment

Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) were incorporated into SiO₂ matrices for the first time by means of partial matrix melting caused by a Nd:YAG laser. Due to the rapid very short heating cycle of the laser MWNTs were detected being well incorporated in the silica matrix although temperatures well above 1200^ºC are reached. It was found that mainly the ability of heat absorption and heat conduction of the MWNTs are responsible for the sample heating. The composites were characterized using scanning electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy and high resolution electron energy-loss spectroscopy.