Carbon nanotubes and iron nanofibers preparation using the pentacarbonyl iron from the V-type pyrolysis flame

Synthesis carbon nanotubes and iron nanofibers from V-type pyrolysis flame is a kind of novel technique. It has potential for utilization in mass production. This study aims to examine conditions for carbon nanotubes and iron nanofibers formation in pyrolysis flame and to characterize its morphology and structure. Pentacarbonyl iron was selected to serve as catalyst precursor. Carbon nanotubes with less impurities and high yield can be synthesized in this method. Its diameter is approximate 20 nm and length is dozens of microns. The concentration of catalyst had important influence on synthesis carbon nanotubes. It is the most favorable to produce carbon nanotubes when the temperature is at about from 800 to 800°C. Iron nanofibers can be found especially when the temperature was below 800°C. It looks like the floc floccule in disorder. Its length is several microns and diameter is about 100 nanometers. Iron nanofibers increase in number but its length and diameter have little change with the temperature rising.