Abstract
Carbon, Boron Nitride and novel inorganic, e.g. MgO, ln(2)O(3),Ga2O3 and SiO2, nanotubes, were filled with various metals, ranging from low-melting point metals, i.e. Ga and ln, to 3d-ferromagnetic metals, like Co, Fe, Ni and alloys of those. The structures and properties of the tubes, and fillings were analyzed using high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Intriguing "nanothermometer"-like behavior was displayed by Ga and In liquid columns inside inorganic tubes. Phase transformations in the Mg-O system within BN tubular cores, which result in O-2 outflow from the tubes, were documented. This creates first nanoscale oxygen burner/generator. Unusual crystal lattices were found in ferromagnetic metals crystallized within the tube channels. Potential applications of the discovered functional nanostructures and associated phenomena are discussed.