On the formation of single-walled carbon nanotubes in pulsed-laser-assisted chemical vapor deposition

We report on a combined approach for single-wall carbon nanotube (SWCNT) synthesis merging pulsed-laser ablation with floating catalyst chemical vapor deposition. This hybrid route allows the synthesis of SWCNT with a defined mean diameter and diameter distribution. Further, a careful investigation of the resulting yield and obtained SWCNT diameter behavior reveals that controlling both the reaction temperature and the carbon availability (via pressure, flow rate, or type of carbon feedstock) is crucial. The complex influence of reaction temperature and carbon availability on the resulting yield and diameter behavior are well-explained within our previously described catalyst volume to surface area formation mechanism of SWCNT.