Tapered carbon nanotubes from activated carbon powders

Abstract

The large-scale synthesis of tapered carbon nanotubes (TCNTs) from activated carbon powders via simple thermal catalytic reaction process, was presented. During the synthesis the CNTs were grown through a Sn-catalyzed vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) growth process. The TCNTs were prepared by thermal reactions using a mixture of CdS, SnO, and activated carbon powders in a horizontal high-temperature resistance furnace. The method offers simplicity in terms of both source material and the synthesis process. It also offers high yield and good alignment of the TCNTs.