Process for the continuous production of aligned carbon nanotubes
US7160531B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 8, 2002 |
| Grant date | Jan 9, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 9, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S977/742
- WIPO fieldMicro-structural and nano-technology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Novel methods and apparati for continuous production of aligned carbon nanotubes are disclosed. In one aspect, the method comprises dispersion of a metal catalyst in a liquid hydrocarbon to form a feed solution, and volatilizing the feed solution in a reactor through which a substrate is continuously passed to allow growth of nanotubes thereon. In another aspect, the apparatus comprises a reactor, a tube-within-a-tube injector, and a conveyor belt for passing a substrate through the reactor. The present invention further discloses a method for restricting the external diameter of carbon nanotubes produced thereby comprising passing the feed solution through injector tubing of a specified diameter, followed by passing the feed solution through an inert, porous medium. The method and apparati of this invention provide a means for producing aligned carbon nanotubes of a particular external diameter which is suitable for large scale production in an industrial setting.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.