Single crystallization of Pb in carbon nanotubes

The formation mechanism of Pb single crystals in carbon nanotubes is considered in terms of the classical nucleation and growth theory modified by our models for size-dependent solid–liquid interface energy and size-dependent melting temperature. It is found that since the growing time of a cylindrical nucleus of Pb along carbon nanotubes is much shorter than the time to form the nucleus, a single crystallization is present. Moreover, the possible smallest diameter of crystalline nanowire is discussed.