Process and apparatus for producing single-walled carbon nanotubes

US7459138B2 · kind B2 · 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: Oct 28, 2004
• Grant date: Dec 2, 2008
• Expiry date: Nov 7, 2026

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S977/843
• WIPO field: Chemical engineering
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

A process and apparatus for catalytic production of single walled 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 reaction gas is preferably provided at a high space velocity to minimize CO2 build-up. The process also contemplates processes 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.