Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 3, 2026

Simultaneous Synthesis of Single-walled Carbon Nanotubes and Graphene in a Magnetically-enhanced Arc Plasma
Published on: February 2, 2012
Diameter-Selective Raman Scattering from Vibrational Modes in Carbon Nanotubes
1A. M. Rao and P. C. Eklund, Department of Physics and Astronomy and Center for Applied Energy Research, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0055, USA. E. Richter, K. A. Williams, S. Fang, K. R. Subbaswamy, Department of Physics and Astronomy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0055, USA. S. Bandow, Instrument Center, Institute for Molecular Science, Myodaiji, Okazaki 444, Japan. B. Chase, Dupont Experimental Station, E328163, P.O. Box 80328, Wilmington, DE 19880-0328, USA. M. Menon, Department of Physics and Astronomy and Center for Computational Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40506-0055, USA. A. Thess and R. E. Smalley, Department of Chemistry, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA. G. Dresselhaus, Francis Bitter Magnet Laboratory, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA. M. S. Dresselhaus, Department of Physics and Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA.
Raman spectroscopy reveals vibrational modes in single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Lattice dynamics calculations and polarizability models support the experimental data, indicating quantum confinement effects.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) exhibit unique properties due to their one-dimensional structure.
- Understanding their vibrational properties is crucial for applications.
- SWNTs often form crystalline ropes in close-packed arrays.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the vibrational modes of SWNTs using Raman scattering.
- To correlate experimental Raman spectra with theoretical models.
- To explore the influence of quantum confinement on Raman scattering.
Main Methods:
- Raman scattering spectroscopy with excitation wavelengths from 514.5 to 1320 nm.
- Lattice dynamics calculations using C-C force constants.
- Comparison with experimental phonon dispersion of graphene.
- Application of a nonresonant bond polarizability model.
Main Results:
- Numerous Raman peaks were observed and assigned to specific vibrational modes of armchair (n, n) SWNTs.
- Experimental spectra showed good agreement with lattice dynamics calculations.
- Calculated intensities from the polarizability model were in qualitative agreement with Raman data.
- Evidence for resonant Raman scattering due to 1D quantum confinement was identified.
Conclusions:
- Raman spectroscopy is effective for characterizing SWNT vibrational modes.
- Lattice dynamics and polarizability models provide valuable insights into SWNT behavior.
- One-dimensional quantum confinement significantly influences the resonant Raman scattering process in SWNTs.
Related Concept Videos
IR Spectroscopy: Molecular Vibration Overview
Stretching vibrations are vibrational motions that occur along the bond line, changing the bond length or distance between two bonded atoms. They are further distinguished as symmetric or asymmetric. In symmetric stretching, the...
Raman Spectroscopy: Overview
However, a small fraction of the scattered light exhibits a frequency shift due to the exchange of energy between the incident photons and the...
Raman Spectroscopy Instrumentation: Overview
The monochromatic laser source, typically using visible or near-infrared radiation, generates a highly focused beam of light. This light interacts with the molecules of the sample, scattering some of the light. Liquid and gaseous samples are usually tested in ordinary glass capillaries, while solids can be analyzed as powders packed in capillaries or as potassium...

