Carbon Nanotubes Production Using Arc Ignition Under Magnetic Field

TL;DR

This study shows that applying a magnetic field during arc discharge in water enhances the production and quality of carbon nanotubes, as confirmed by SEM, TEM, and Raman spectroscopy analyses.

Contribution

It introduces a magnetic field modification to arc discharge CNT synthesis, improving yield and quality compared to traditional methods.

Findings

Increased CNT yield with magnetic field application

Raman spectra show clear RBM indicating CNT presence

Magnetic field influences nanotube diameter distribution

Abstract

We demonstrate that AC arc discharge under de-ionized water which has been recently used for carbon nanotubes (CNT) production can be modified to increase the quantity and quality of carbon nanotubes by applying a magnetic field. The carbon soot thus obtained was analyzed using SEM, TEM and Raman spectroscopy. The Raman scattering measurements showed interesting results. Radial breathing modes (RBM) were observed in the Raman data in the range 150 - 700 cm-1. The presence of RBM is good enough indication of the presence of the carbon nanotubes in the soot collected by us. The RBM data was analyzed further which indicated a superposition of two closely lying modes. It showed the distribution of tube diameter which depended on the application of magnetic field.