Catalytic growth of carbon filaments

Abstract This article is a review of the information obtained by the author and his many co-workers from studies devoted to the formation of a fascinating material, filamentous carbon. Using the controlled atmosphere electron microcopy technique it has been possible to directly observe the manner by which various metal and alloys particles catalyze the growth of this form of carbon. Based on the qualitative and quantitative data obtained from these experiments, a mechanism was developed to account for the growth characteristics of filamentous carbon. From a consideration of the key steps involved in the process it has been possible to establish methods for controlling the growth of these structures. Continuous observation of many growth sequences has shown that both the addition of a second metal to the catalyst and also the strength of the metal-support interaction can play an important role in modifying the filament growth characteristics.

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