METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING CARBONACEOUS ARTICLES

摘要

An apparatus (10) for the production of elongated carbonaceous article includes a chamber (11) having at least one heating element (12), a catalyst (34) and a device (40) for generating a magnetic field in proximity to or around the catalyst (34). In operation, a carbon-containing precursor (16) is introduced to the chamber (11) to contact the catalyst (34) with a sufficient amount of heat to cause the deposition of carbon on the catalyst (34). Continual deposition of carbon over time forms elongated carbon structures, such as carbon fibers and carbon nanotubes. By operating the device (40) to magnetically confine the catalyst (34) during the formation of the carbon structures, migration of catalyst (34) is reduced or prevented thereby minimizing contaminants in the produced products and improving the useful life of the catalyst (34).