Continuous synthesis of carbon nanoclusters using well-controlled thermal plasmas

A continuous synthesis technique to produce carbon nanoclusters such as multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) or carbon nanofibers (CNFs) is studied by using a well-controlled plasma jet. In this method, numerous fiber-like structures can be produced. Production of carbon nanoclusters are well enhanced by additionally injecting Ni powders compared with production by using only CH4/H2 gas mixtures. Effect of Ni powder injection, i.e. behaviors of Ni powders and production mechanism are briefly discussed.