Ni-Y/Mo catalyst for the large-scale CVD production of multi-wall carbon nanotubes

A novel Ni-Y/Mo catalyst has been prepared for the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNT) using methane as carbon precursor. It was observed that the carbon deposit generated by the catalyst was formed by filaments gathered together in large bundles or rope-like structures. It was found that Ni-Y/Mo catalyst was adequate for the mass production of muti-walled nanotubes (MWNT) by CVD process, presenting high yield and samples with relatively high surface areas and low level of impurities. A synergy effect between Ni and Y was also observed in comparison to the Ni/Mo and Y/Mo catalysts.