Large scale synthesis of carbon nanofibers by catalytic decomposition of ethane on nickel nanoclusters decorating carbon nanotubes

A large scale synthesis of carbon nanofibers with a controlled diameter of about 50 nm has been achieved at relatively low temperatures (550–650 °C) by the decomposition of ethane on a carbon nanotube supported nickel catalyst. The carbon nanofibers can be used as a catalyst or a catalyst support without subsequent purification, due to the use of carbon nanotubes as support, the high nanofiber yields, and the purity obtained.