Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were irradiated by 1.2 keV Ar ion beams for 15–60 min at room temperature with current density of 60 µA/cm2. The morphology and microstructure are investigated by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. The results show that carbon nanofibers are achieved after 60 min ion irradiation and the formation of carbon nanofibers proceeds through four periods, carbon nanotubes—amorphous carbon nanowires—carbon nanoparticles along the tube axis—conical protrusions on the nanoparticles surface—carbon nanofibers from the conical protrusions.
Comparison of functionalized carbon nanofibers and multi-walled carbon nanotubes as supports for Fe–Co nanoparticles