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Degree

Master of Sciences (Engineering), Case Western Reserve University, Chemical Engineering, 2011.

Abstract

Large scale, low cost synthesis of specific carbon nanotube configurations has not yet been achieved due to incomplete understanding of the mechanism of growth and the role of precursor gases. This paper analyzes and discusses the function of acetylene in carbon nanotube growth on nickel nanocatalyst particles. It was found that the growth rates of carbon nanotubes display a first-order rate law with respect to low concentrations of acetylene. A potential mechanism accompanies this discovery. Furthermore, this first-order rate law applies up to a threshold concentration of acetylene in which higher concentrations cause the growth rates to stagnate. Micro-Raman spectroscopy and gas chromatography techniques for analysis of these materials are also discussed. Conclusions from this paper serve as building blocks for additional experimentation aimed at understanding the overall mechanism of synthesis of carbon nanotubes.

Keywords

C2H2; CARBON NANOTUBE GROWTH; sccm

Committee / Advisors

Ramanathan Sankaran, PhD (Committee Chair)
Heidi Martin, PhD (Committee Member)
Daniel Lacks, PhD (Committee Member)

Pages

46p.

Document number: case1301327100
Permalink: http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=case1301327100

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