Patent ID: 7816619
Filing Date: 2010-10-19
Classification: B82Y,C01B,Y10S

Abstract:
1. A process for manufacturing carbon nanotubes, comprising: a. providing at least two carbonaceous electrodes where at least one of said carbonaceous electrodes serves as the primary source of carbon; and b. providing a non-carcinogenic dielectric oil for immersing said carbonaceous electrodes; and c. providing means for varying the distance between said carbonaceous electrodes while said carbonaceous electrodes are immersed in said dielectric oil; then d. immersing said carbonaceous electrodes in said dielectric oil; and e. placing said carbonaceous electrodes in closely spaced-apart opposing positions with at least one electrode serving as an anode and at least one electrode serving as a cathode; then f. establishing an electric arc through said dielectric oil and between said carbonaceous electrodes and thus inducing an electric current through said carbonaceous electrodes; g. allowing said electric arc to continue thus producing carbon nanotubes from electrode material, whereby said dielectric oil provides an oxygen-free process environment and acts as a dielectric and a coolant, but not as a source of carbon, whereby high-quality carbon nanotubes are produced cost-effectively and in large quantities.