Synthesis Methods of Carbon Nanotubes and Related Materials

Abstract

The challenge on carbon nanotubes is still the subject of many research groups. While in the first years the focus was on the new synthesis methods, new carbon sources and support materials, recently, the application possibilities are the principal arguments of the studies. The three main synthesis methods discussed in this review are the arc discharge, the laser ablation and the chemical vapour deposition (CVD) with a special regard to the latter one. In the early stage of the nanotube production the first two methods were utilized mainly for the production of SWNTs while the third one produced mainly MWNTs. The principle of CVD is the decomposition of various hydrocarbons over transition metal supported catalyst. Single-walled (SWNT), multi-walled (MWNT) and coiled carbon nanotubes are produced. In some case, interesting carbonaceous materials are formed during the synthesis process, such as bamboo-like tubes, onions, horn-like structures. In this paper, we refer to the progresses made in the field of the synthesis techniques of carbon nanotubes in the last decade.

Sol–gel chemistry mediated Zn/Al-based complex dispersant for SWCNT in water without foam formation

“…We used highly pure and crystalline SWCNT (Meijo) prepared by arc method [23] as delivered without any future purification; the SWCNT samples were used for the dispersion experiments without any pre-treatment. Zn/Al complex was prepared by the sol-gel method using Zn(CH3COO)2 and Al(NO3)3.…”

Spectroelectrochemistry at free-standing carbon nanotubes electrodes

“…CNTs can be produced using different methods, such as discharge methods, laser ablation, pyrolysis, sonochemical/hydrothermal, high-pressure carbon monoxide conversion (HiPCO) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD), leading to a variety of final properties (orientation, alignment, nanotube length, diameter, purity and density) [9,10].…”

Chemical sensors based on polymer composites with carbon nanotubes and graphene: the role of the polymer

“…Different techniques have been developed to synthesize CNTs, and detailed information about such methods can be found elsewhere. 48,49 CNTs have unique electronic, chemical and mechanical properties that make them leading materials for a variety of potential applications. They are one of the stronger and stiffer materials in terms of strength and elastic modulus 4,5 and also display very high electrical 6 and thermal 7 conductivity as well as thermal stability.…”