Production of carbon nano- and microfibers by methane pyrolysis on zirconia

Abstract

The production of carbon nano- and microfibers by pyrolysis of methane (mains gas) on three ZrO₂ samples prepared by different methods, at 400–700°C, methane flow rates of 175–1050 mL/min, and process times up to 4 h was studied. Comparatively long carbon bamboo-like microfibers having diameters of 0.24–0.31 μm were found to form on ZrO₂, their weights and linear growth rates were assessed, and the process was shown to not slow down over time. The electrical conductivities of the fibers were measured.