Synthesis of Tridimensional Ensembles of Carbon Nanotubes

The topic of this chapter is the synthesis of both aligned and unaligned carbon nanotube bulk ensembles by different methods such as electric arc discharge, laser ablation and chemical vapor deposition methods. First, general requirements for the CNTs synthesis are introduced. Utilization of different types of nucleation centers for nanotube synthesis as well as the role of CNT growth promoters and inhibitors is reviewed. Particular attention is paid to CVD methods which are most easily scalable, they offer a relatively good control over synthesis conditions and a high quality of as produced CNTs. Two general approaches for formation of catalyst for the CVD nanotube synthesis are discussed, namely methods utilizing pre-deposited catalysts or their precursors and methods exploiting an injection of catalyst precursors during the nanotube synthesis. Examples of breakthrough synthesis approaches, fundamental studies and those with best known results are given. The different nanotube fabrication methodologies are reviewed and discussed in details. This may assist readers to select the proper method and synthesis conditions with regards to nanotube targeted application.