Method and apparatus for producing carbon nanotubes

US6413487B1 · kind B1 · utility

Assignee

• The Board of Regents of the University of Oklahoma · US

Inventors

• Daniel E. Resasco · Norman, US
• Boonyarach Kitiyanan · Sipirok, ID
• Walter Alvarez · Norman, US
• Leandro Balzano · Norman, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jun 2, 2000
• Grant date: Jul 2, 2002
• Expiry date: Jul 19, 2020

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S977/845
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A method and apparatus for catalytic production of carbon nanotubes. Catalytic particles are exposed to different process conditions at successive stages wherein the catalytic particles do not come in contact with reactive (catalytic) gases until preferred process conditions have been attained, thereby controlling the quantity and form of carbon nanotubes produced. The method also contemplates methods and apparatus which recycle and reuse the gases and catalytic particulate materials, thereby maximizing cost efficiency, reducing wastes, reducing the need for additional raw materials, and producing the carbon nanotubes, especially SWNTs, in greater quantities and for lower costs.