Connection of macro-sized double-walled carbon nanotube strands by current-assisted laser irradiation

Abstract

Macro-sized (length in centimeter) double-walled carbon nanotube (DWNT) strands were connected by current-assisted laser irradiation after bandaging their overlapped ends with DWNT films. During laser processing, structural transformation of the DWNT bundles occurred at the joints, which provided C-C bonding between the strands. Tensile test results indicate that the joints connected by this method have relatively high tensile strength with a maximum value of 335.6MPa, equivalent to that of the original strands. The electronic properties of the connected strands reduced a little but still good. Temperature dependence of resistivity of the joints was also investigated. This work offers a promising potential for future extensive use of macro-sized CNT structures in many fields.