Abstract: MWCNT aerogels combine unique properties of their basic building element with related characteristics of aerogel structure. Here we report a new one-step approach for MWCNT aerogel production via CCVD technique by using a preformed catalyst. It based on multi-centered growth of MWCNTs provided by formation of multiple nanosized catalytic centers on the surface of the support particle. Tangling of the MWCNTs during the following growth provides formation sponge-like structure of aerogel. Due to intensive nanotube growth, a volume of resulting material increases a hundred times in comparison with a volume of preformed catalysts. This results in the formation of aerogels with density of 0.03-0.08 g/cm3. Any shape of aerogels is possible to obtain by using different geometry of preformed catalysts (balls, cylinders etc.). In situ produced MWCNT aerogels demonstrate high electrical conductivity (several S/cm), remain stable in different solvents and hold more than 2000 their wieght. Pores of size >120 nm occupy >95% of aerogel volume whereas smaller pores take up <2%. MWCNT aerogels show electric polarizability values close to metals while having a substantially lower weight (8-12 GHz). Due to rigid, tunable shape and pore structure, MWCNT aerogels are promising for such applications as EMI and acoustic shielding materials, gas sensors and substrates for biological objects.

Cite: Krasnikov D.V. , Kuznetsov V.L. , Kazakova M.A. , Moseenkov S.I. , Smirnova T.E. , Suslyaev V.I. , Dorofeev I.O.
A New One-Step CCVD Technique for the Production of MWCNT Aerogels
The Sixteenth International Conference on the Science and Application of Nanotubes (NT15) 29 Jun - 3 Jul 2015