Publications

Double arc discharge method is proposed as a potential method for economic large-scale production of carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) due to its relative simplicity of operation, process control, energy efficiency, raw materials used, capability to scale up as large unit operation. This study focuses on the manufacture of CNPs using the double arc discharge method. The effects of arc current on the morphology and yield of CNPs were investigated within a range of 30–110 A. The double arc discharge technique involves an easy set up while it is possible to produce high purity and yield. This was the method originally used to produce of onion-like CNPs. It comprises the vaporization of three carbon rods, with a three-phase current passing through the pair of arcs immersed in deionized water. The Effect of discharge current on structure and yield of CNPs has been comprehensively investigated; it was found that the production yield of CNPs synthesized by carbon electrodes became also higher with an increase in the arc current. It is found that the current has the largest impact on the particle evaporation rate and can increase it with orders of magnitude. The analysis of the obtained products by Chemical composition and crystallographic structure of the CNPs was confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements, while scanning (SEM) and transmission scanning electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize the morphology of CNPs as well as the distribution of CNPs in the sample. Energy Dispersive Xray spectroscopy (EDX) and SEM enable the chemical characterization of bulk and surface of individual nanoparticles. The ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) absorption spectra of CNPs prepared by double arc discharge were measured. Theoretical calculations for the spherical CNPs were also carried out to explain the experimental spectra. Photon Correlation Spectroscopy (PCS) and the main features of the obtained CNPs are discussed. In this investigation the simple and inexpensive double arc discharge in liquid method has been used to produce CNPs, other nanostructures asproducts were also produced by this method.