Carbon nanotubes(CNTs) are nanomaterials that have attracted great research interest because of their unique properties and promising applications.The controllable synthesis of CNTs is a precondition for their broad application.In this review,we consider nanoscale process engineering and assess recent progress in the mass production of ultra-long,inexpensive CNTs with good alignment as well as tunability in wall number and diameter for fundamental and engineering science applications across multiple scales.Cutting-edge nanoscale process engineering research in the areas of physics,chemistry,materials,engineering,ecology,and social science will allow us to obtain high added value and multi-functional advanced CNTs.The synthesis of CNTs with controllable chirality,good-alignment,and predetermined sizes and lengths still presents great challenges.Through multidisciplinary scientific research,advanced CNT-based materials will promote the development of a sustainable society.
In this topic,we first discussed the requirement and performance of supercapacitors using carbon nanotubes(CNTs) as the electrode,including specific surface area,purity and cost.Then we reviewed the preparation technique of single walled CNTs(SWNTs) in relatively large scale by chemical vapor deposition method.Its catalysis on the decomposition of methane and other carbon source,the reactor type and the process control strategies were discussed.Special focus was concentrated on how to increase the yield,selectivity,and purity of SWNTs and how to inhibit the formation of impurities,including amorphous carbon,multiwalled CNTs and the carbon encapsulated metal particles,since these impurities seriously influenced the performance of SWNTs in supercapacitors.Wish it be helpful to further decrease its product cost and for the commercial use in supercapacitors.
