Creation of 1-D novel structure inside single-walled carbon nanotubes using plasma ion irradiation method

In order to explore novel functional nanomaterials, we have developed a new synthesis method of SWNTs encapsulating foreign elements by the bias-voltage application to SWNTs in plasmas, which contain oppositely-charged ions of different species. In contrast to pristine samples, a remarkable change of the nanotube structure is observed after the plasma-ion irradiation. The Cs encapsulation inside SWNTs is for the first time realized and the encapsulated Cs configuration is confirmed to comprise three varieties. C₆₀ encapsulated SWNTs are also found to be effectively synthesized in the case of the positive bias application in the alkali-fullerene plasma. The yield on peapod formation is directly proportional to the plasma density used. In the end, it is noteworthy that our unique experimental approach is a good candidate for the creation of novel-functional nanomaterials.