We report the synthesis of high-quality single-walled carbon nanotubes
(SWNT) by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of methane at 1000 degrees
C on supported Fe2O3 catalysts. The type of catalyst support is found
to control the formation of individual or bundled SWNTs. Catalysts sup
ported on crystalline alumina nanoparticles produce abundant individua
l SWNTs and small bundles. Catalysts supported by amorphous silica par
ticles produce only SWNT bundles. Studies of the ends of SWNTs lead to
an understanding of their growth mechanism. Also, we present the resu
lts of methane CVD on supported NiO, CoO and NiO/CoO catalysts. (C) 19
98 Published by Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.