Papers by Author: Ian Kinloch

Abstract: The production of substrates coated with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in well-defined patterns is desirable for sensor applications. In the present work, nickel based catalytic inks were prepared and printed on silicon substrates using inkjet delivery. Subsequently, the substrates were subjected to calcination and chemical vapour deposition for the growth of aligned CNTs. Scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy were used to characterize the CNTs. Various concentrations and formulations of ink preparations were studied to investigate the effect of these parameters on the growth and structure of the CNTs.

Abstract: Composites of hydroxyapatite (HA) and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been prepared and characterised for potential application in major load-bearing medical devices. We have studied the effect of nanotube surface chemistry, composite preparation methods, and heat treatment conditions on the microstructure of the composites, dispersion of CNTs, and interaction between the HA and CNTs. The samples were characterised using SEM, XRD, FTIR, and BET surface area. It was found that, compared with pure HA, the composites had lower densities and higher surface areas. Additionally, functionalisation improved the dispersion of CNTs in the HA matrix and the interaction between the two phases.