Synthesis of multi-walled carbon nanotubes by catalytic chemical vapor deposition using Cr_(2-x)Fe_xO_3 as catalyst

摘要

Chromium oxide and iron oxide solid solution was used as a catalyst for multi-walled carbon nanotubes synthesis by the catalytic chemical vapor deposition technique. The catalyst was prepared by the solution combustion synthesis method. Natural gas (NG) was employed as a carbon source for the carbon nanotube growth instead of methane, which is typically used. The carbon nanotube synthesis was carried out under H_2/NG and Ar/NG atmospheres at 950 deg C. The Cr_(2-x)Fe_xO_3 catalyst was capable to produce carbon nanotubes only in H_2/NG atmospheres. Partial elimination of the catalyst after the synthesis was possible using a concentrated solution of HNO_3.