Synthesis of boron nitride nanotubes using an oxygen and carbon dual-free precursor

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) have attracted extensive research attention due to their intriguing properties and promising applications. However, the fundamental issue regarding the introduction of oxygen and carbon impurities into the final product remains a challenge. Herein, we utilized a novel precursor consisting of oxygen and carbon dual-free reactants (MgF₂, NH₄Cl, and B) for the synthesis of pure BNNTs. The MgCl₂ intermediate species of magnesium acts as a catalyst, which prevents the oxidization of the product and has been proved to be the key factor for pure BNNTs growth.