Carbon nanotubes manufacturing using the CVD equipment against the background of other methods

Purpose: The primary purpose of the article is to present the most popular techniques of manufacturing carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) method is described in detail with special focus laid on the universality of such technique and on economic considerations. The outcomes of investigations presenting carbon nanotubes fabricated with the EasyTube® 2000 system are also demonstrated. Design/methodology/approach: Electron microscopy was used for illustrating the structure and morphology of newly manufactured multiwalled carbon nanotubes. Findings: The microscopic examinations conducted with high-resolution transmission electron microscopy have confirmed the homogeneity, high quality and purity of the manufactured carbon nanotubes. Practical implications: Carbon nanotubes are currently valued because of their diverse applications. Depending on the structure, carbon nanotubes may act as conductors or semiconductors and such properties can be utilised in electronics. Other fields of application include optics, medicine, transportation (lightweight and robust constructions). CNTs are also utilised as elements of chemical and biochemical sensors, especially when coated with particles of precious metals (e.g. Pt, Au, Pd). Carbon nanotubes are also used as a reinforcing component in composites. Originality/value: The characterisation of carbon nanotubes fabrication methods with special consideration to the chemical vapour deposition method by means of an EasyTube® 2000 device by FirstNano.