Carbon Nanotubes Produced using Renewable Biomass

Scientists from the University of Science and Technology Liaoning, China have published a report in Energy Conversion and Management that demonstrates the use of renewable biomass for production of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The scientists used a microwave to pyrolyze Palm Kernel Shells (PKS) which had been treated to isolate either cellulose or lignin. In samples with isolated cellulose, the researchers found formation of multiwalled CNTs on the surface of cellulose bio-chars. The study is an exciting development and may provide a cost effective, sustainable and efficient method for large scale production of CNTs from renewable biomass!