Attachment of CO to a (6, 6) CNT with a Sc adsorbate atom

We have comparatively investigated the adsorption behaviors of Sc atom on the external and internal surfaces of the pristine, Stone-Wales (SW), and single-vacancy (SV) defect nanotubes based on the density functional theory. Our results reveal that the stability of Sc atom onto the external and internal surfaces of the carbon nanotubes is in following orders by defect: SV>SW1>SW2>pristine (external surfaces), SV>SW2>SW1>pristine (internal surfaces). To explore the reactivity of Sc@CNT/SW/SV complexes which can serve as a gas sensor or a catalyst in direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC), the interaction between a CO molecule and Sc@CNT/SW/SV is also examined. The SV defect in carbon nanotubes can make the confined Sc atom with good CO adsorption property, while the confined Sc in the SW defect carbon nanotube has good anti-CO poisoning. By our studies, it plays an important guidance role in improving the activity of metal catalyst and the sensitivity and stability of metal particles to functional molecules, and provides the theoretical basis for designing new carbon nanotube-based metal catalyst.