Silica nanotubes decorated with internal periodic rings

Silica nanotubes decorated with internal periodic rings have been synthesized via a chemical vapor deposition process with the aid of sulfur. The amorphous nanotubes have an outer diameter of 400–600 nm and wall thickness of 50–60 nm with the internal periodic ring being spaced approximately 220 nm apart. Selective growth of nanotubes or nanocables is controlled via a designed evaporation process. Sulfur has been proved to play an important role in inducing a transition from nanowires to nanotubes. Featuring their periodic rings, these silica nanotubes may find potential applications in various optical, electronic and catalytic nanodevices.