Arc plasma synthesis of carbon nanostructures: where is the frontier?

Abstract

In this perspective paper, we critically analyse the state-of-the-art of arc discharge technique of carbon nanoparticle synthesis. We discuss improving controllability of the arc discharge synthesis of carbon nanotubes, synthesis of graphene as well as general understanding of the synthesis process. Fundamental issues related to relationship between plasma parameters and carbon nanostructure characteristics are considered. Effects of electrical and magnetic fields applied during single-wall carbon nanotube synthesis in arc plasma are explored. Finally our personal opinion on what future trends will be in arc discharge synthesis is offered.

Carbon nanomaterials synthesized by arc discharge hot plasma

“…The arc discharge process is usually optimized by changing experimental parameters such as buffer gas, current/voltage, catalysts, electrode morphologies, carbon sources, external fields, and so on. [7][8][9][10] Essentially, the changes of experimental parameters give different plasma parameters and spatial distribution, as well as carbon nucleation and growth in space and time domain. For SWCNTs and DWCNTs, the size and spatial distribution of catalysts in the anode have a great influence on the nucleation and growth process during arc discharge.…”

Review of Electrochemical Capacitors Based on Carbon Nanotubes and Graphene

“…Anodic arc discharge is one of the most practical and efficient methods to synthesize various carbon nanostructures [96]. A great progress of improving the controllability and flexibility of carbon nanostructures growth in arc discharge was made by introducing mag-netic field according to the strong magnetic responses of arc plasmas [97].…”

Formation of copper porous structures under near-equilibrium chemical vapor deposition

“…Quite often similar structures are obtained using absolutely different technologies utilizing plasma-condensate or chemically active medium-condensate systems. An example would be formation of different carbon molecular forms using CVD or PVD technology under near-equilibrium conditions [49][50][51]. Such similarities in the structures can be explained by identical thermodynamic conditions, which in turn are determined by the same values of the chemical potential difference of atoms in vapor and condensed state.…”