Fabrication and Characterization of Ni-CNT Composites by Electrical Explosion of Wire in Different Liquids

In this study, Ni-CNT powders and colloids were synthesized via the Electrical explosion of wire (EEW) in different liquid conditions. The influence of ambient solvents (D.I. Water, ethanol, methanol, acetone and ethylene-glycol) on characteristics of the as-synthesized Ni-CNT was investigated. The morphology and size were observed by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). The Ni particles were spherical or near spherical shape. The phase of the composite powders analyzed via X-ray diffraction demonstrate the presence of CNTs in composite powders is not affect the structure of Ni. However, the phase of the composites was changed based on the changing of liquid conditions. Stability of colloids was investigated by Turbiscan technique. Magnetic properties were also investigated by Vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) at room temperature. The as-synthesized composite powders revealed a ferromagnetic characteristic material.