Transformation of carbon nanotubes to nanoparticles by ball milling process Original Research Article

Carbon nanotubes were treated by high-energy ball milling processing for different milling times, and the samples were observed by HRTEM. The broken nanotubes and lots of carbon onion-like particles were obtained in the sample milled for 15 min. When the milling time was up to 60 min, carbon nanotubes turned into amorphous carbon. On the basis of HRTEM observation of carbon nanotubes and carbon nanoparticles, we discuss the possible formation mechanism of nanoparticles under the impact acting as driving force.