Synthesis of Unique Structures of Carbon Nanotube at Anodic Aluminum Oxide Template

Abstract

Carbon nanotube (CNT) is one of the most attractive nanomaterials which may be used in many potential applications of nanotechnology due to its excellent mechanical, electrical and thermal properties. We demonstrated the fabrication of carbon nanotube at the surface of anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) membrane by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method. Acetylene was used as a hydrocarbon source and Fe as catalyst. CNT was synthesized at different temperature. The iron catalyst was confined in the holes of the AAO membrane. A variety of carbon structures such as nanotubes, helices, spiral, and hook-like curved shapes in the range of micrometer were synthesized. High graphitic multiwall carbon nanotube (MWCNT) was found at 700-750°C temperature.