LaC₂ Encapsulated in Graphite Nano-Particle

Abstract

Arc discharging carbon rods containing 8.8 wt% La 2 O 3 produces a carbonaceous deposit containing nano-particles (nm-size particles) consisting of graphite shells around core nano-crystals averaging 10-30 nm in diameter but sometimes 3-4 nm. Transmission electron microscopy, nm-size electron diffraction and electron energy-loss spectroscopy have revealed that the nano-crystals are La-carbide, LaC 2 , that the interfaces between the carbide and the graphite are flat, and that no intermediate layers are formed.