Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods for the conversion of a solution or suspension of polymers, plastics, and other carbon-containing waste materials in the presence of a metal containing catalyst into carbon nanotubes. The method includes steps of mixing the polymer and metallic catalyst in a suitable solvent and injecting the mixture into a heated zone of a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor to produce carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Advantages of the present disclosure include ease of use, the potential use of a wide range of plastics that cannot be recycled or upcycled by traditional methods, and the ability to use waste hydrocarbon solvents to dissolve the plastic, or to use as a carbon source.

Abstract: The present disclosure provides methods for the conversion of a solution or suspension of polymers, plastics, and other carbon-containing waste materials in the presence of a metal containing catalyst into carbon nanotubes. The method includes steps of mixing the polymer and metallic catalyst in a suitable solvent and injecting the mixture into a heated zone of a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reactor to produce carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Advantages of the present disclosure include ease of use, the potential use of a wide range of plastics that cannot be recycled or upcycled by traditional methods, and the ability to use waste hydrocarbon solvents to dissolve the plastic, or to use as a carbon source.