X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectroscopy was used to detect the presence of defects introduced into single-walled carbon nanotubes by nitric acid treatment and by Ar+ ion bombardment. The relationship between the features of X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectra, and the structural defects, was systematically determined. The data also indicated an oxygen effect induced by aging on nanotubes.

A XANES Characterization of Structural Defects in Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes. J.Zhong, L.Song, D.Yan, Z.Wu, C.Wang, S.Xie, H.Qian: Radiation Physics and Chemistry, 2006, 75[11], 1861-5