This paper describes the detailed experimental techniques used in our research group to evaluate the purity, crystallinity, and homogeneity of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs), and the properties of a Li-ion battery electrode made from them that has the high purity, high crystallinity and a small diameter distribution. It has been pointed out that simple SWCNTs do not work well as battery electrode materials, due to the large irreversible capacity caused by the decomposition of electrolyte on their surfaces. We have found that SWCNTs encapsulating active electrode materials avoid the problem of electrolyte decomposition while making use of the advantages provided by the high electric conductivity and the unique molecular stabilizing ability of SWCNTs.
Diamond-like carbon (DLC) films were synthesized by our original photoemission-assisted plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PA-PECVD) method. The discharge modes of PA-PECVD are photoemission-assisted Townsend discharge (PATD) and photoemission-assisted glow discharge (PAGD), both of which are caused by photoelectrons continuously emitted from the substrate under UV irradiation. The photoelectrons give a certain discharge-starting voltage and current area to generate a controlled plasma, different from the general Townsend and glow discharges caused by accidentally-produced electrons. We used this advantage for DLC growth analysis to present a growth model with bond rearrangement caused by the effect of ions on the growing film and its hydrogen desorption. PATD creates a precisely-doped DLC structure. A three-layer material of DLC/oxygen-doped DLC/DLC film has a very high breakdown strength compared to silicon dioxide.
Mechanical properties of carbon fibers show strong anisotropy. The aim of this thesis is to develop mechanical test methods other than axial tensile test and to clarify their anisotropy. Torsional test, transverse compressive crash test and three point bending test were carried out for single carbon fiber. Test equipment, test conditions and analytical conditions were investigated. Diameter variation in single fiber was also investigated for more accurate evaluation of mechanical properties. In addition, interfacial shear strength was evaluated with a microcomposite specimen which reproduced the matrix affected by surrounding fibers.