Abstract: The present invention relates to the formation and processing of nanostructures including nanotubes. Some embodiments provide processes for nanostructure growth using relatively mild conditions (e.g., low temperatures). In some cases, methods of the invention may improve the efficiency (e.g., catalyst efficiency) of nanostructure formation and may reduce the production of undesired byproducts during nanostructure formation, including volatile organic compounds and/or polycylic aromatic hydrocarbons. Such methods can both reduce the costs associated with nanostructure formation, as well as reduce the harmful effects of nanostructure fabrication on environmental and public health and safety.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
June 17, 2010
Date of Patent:
October 1, 2013
Assignees:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of Michigan, The Board of Regents Acting For and On Behalf of the C/O Technology Management Office, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute
Inventors:
Desiree L. Plata, Philip S. Gschwend, Anastasios John Hart, Eric R. Meshot, Christopher M. Reddy