Synthesis of Nanometer-Sized SiC Whiskers in the Arc-Discharge

Abstract

SiC is an attractive target for nanoparticlesbecause of its excellent electronic and mechanical properties, and its chemical resistivity. Here is reported the first direct synthesis in an arc discharge of nanowhiskers of SiC 100 nm in length and 10 nm in diameter (see TEM image). A metal-catalyzed vapor–liquid–solid mechanism is suggested for the growth of the whiskers.