Here,
we report the presence of ferromagnetism in hybrid nickel–boron
nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) with an ordered structure, synthesized by
chemical vapor deposition using elemental boron, nickel oxide as the
catalyst, and ammonia gas as the source for nitrogen. In previous
studies, the nanotubes were synthesized with two metal oxide catalysts,
whereas here, only a single catalyst was used. The nanotube’s
structure was determined by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy,
and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Purity of the
nanotubes synthesized at 1150 °C was exceptional and this was
determined by Raman spectroscopy. The average diameter of the nanotubes
was 63 nm. Based on the magnetic studies carried out, it can be confirmed
that the synthesized hybrid material is ferromagnetic at room temperature.
Cyclic voltammetry was carried out to confirm the dielectric nature
of the nanotubes. These materials could pave ways to nanoscale devices.
The well-known thermal stability of BNNTs would play a vital role
in preventing thermal failures in such small-scale devices where overheating
is a major concern. The presence of semiconducting and magnetic properties
in a single material could be confirmed, which might be highly significant
in the field of spintronics.
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