Template synthesis of well-graphitized carbon nanotube arrays

Highly ordered freestanding multiwalled carbon nanotube arrays on gold substrate have been fabricated by using hexagonal close-packed nanochannel alumina templates with a cobalt–nickel catalyst. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy images and electron diffraction pattern show that the carbon nanotubes are well graphitized. Raman spectrum shows its weak peak at 1354 cm−1 (D band) and strong peak at 1578 cm−1 (G band). The well-graphitized freestanding carbon nanotubes arrays will have potential applications in lithium-ion battery and other fields.