Synthesis of Carbon Nanotubes from Benzene in a Fluidised Bed Reactor

Abstract

The paper presents the results of carbon nanotubes synthesis from benzene in fluidised bed reactor. Al2O3 spheres with iron and nickel nanoparticles coating were used as a catalyst for the synthesis of carbon nanotubes. To deposit nickel nanoparticles on the surface of Al2O3 spheres, the method of solution combustion was used. Optimum temperature conditions and gas flow rates were worked out for each of the catalysts. It was found that the best efficiency in the synthesis of carbon nanotubes from benzene is shown by catalysts based on aluminium oxide coated with iron. The obtained carbon nanotubes were studied by scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy. It was found that at temperatures above 850 °C from benzene on Al2O3 spheres with Ni/NiO, carbon frame structures are formed.

Keywords

• carbon nanotubes
• benzene
• chemical vapor deposition
• fluidised bed reactor
• carbon framework structure