Urchin-like self-supported carbon nanotubes with macroscopic shaping and fully accessible surface

A self-supported carbon nanotubes (SSCNTs) with nanoscopic properties and controlled macroscopic shape were synthesized by a Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) method using a mixture of ethane/hydrogen and a Fe/Al 2O 3 growth catalyst. The SSCTs were obtained in the form of beads of 6–8 mm in diameter, with a hollow core structure and a high and fully accessible specific surface area, i.e. 140–180 m 2.g − 1 . In addition, the macroscopic shape and open structure of these SSCNTs allow them to be efficiently used as catalyst support either in a gas-phase or in a liquid-phase configuration. [Display omitted]