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Nanotube-based gas sensors - role of structural defects

Journal Article · · Chemical Physics Letters
OSTI ID:881877
Existing theoretical literature suggests that defect-free, pristine carbon nanotubes (CNTs) interact weakly with many gas molecules like H{sub 2}O, CO, NH{sub 3}, H{sub 2}, and so on. The case of NH{sub 3} is particularly intriguing because this is in disagreement with experimentally observed changes in electrical conductance of CNTs upon exposure to these gases. In order to explain such discrepancy, we have carried out Density Functional Theory (DFT) investigations of the role of common atomistic defects in CNT (Stone-Wales, monovacancy, and interstitial) on the chemisorption of NH{sub 3}. Computed binding energies, charge transfer, dissociation barriers, and vibrational modes are compared with existing experimental results on electrical conductance, thermal desorption and infrared spectroscopy.
Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
W-7405-ENG-48
OSTI ID:
881877
Report Number(s):
UCRL-JRNL-212147
Journal Information:
Chemical Physics Letters, Journal Name: Chemical Physics Letters Vol. 421; ISSN CHPLBC; ISSN 0009-2614
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English