CHAPTER 8: Carbon Nanotube Synthesis and Applications

In this chapter, the synthesis and applications of carbon nanotubes are discussed. The synthesis of carbon nanotubes by different methods, including arc discharge, laser ablation and chemical vapor deposition, are discussed. Recent progress on the effect of controlled synthesis on the different parameters, such as yield, production, density, diameter, conductive behavior and chirality, are described. Then, the properties of carbon nanotubes are introduced, including their excellent electrical/thermal conductivity, high specific surface area, tunable band gap and unique optical properties, etc. The applications and roles of carbon nanotubes in energy conversion/storage and optoelectronic devices are also summarized based on their unique properties.