Technology of the nanocarbon materials preparation

The technology of the nanocarbon materials preparation by the catalytic decomposition of hydrocarbons on nanocrystalline iron is described. Among different methods of nanocarbon materials preparation, this one, based on the catalytical gas-solid reaction can be recommended as a simple, inexpensive, easy to control and easy to process scale up-grading. The use of nanocrystalline iron as a raw material enables carrying out the process in the kinetics area of the reaction, when diffusion is not limiting. There is no need to apply special conditions, as high pressure or vacuum, laser ablation or high temperatures (the process can be carried out with good efficiency in the temperature range from 350 to 550°C). Depending on the process conditions, different forms of nanocarbons can be obtained (amorphous carbon, carbon nanofibers or nanotubes).