Applications of Carbon Nanofiber CHEM26S Research Class: Dr. Liu's Lab
Introduction/Fabrication of CNF
In Dr. Liu’s Nanomaterials lab, the synthesis and applications of Carbon Nanofiber (CNF) were explored. CNF has similar applications to the Carbon Nanotube (CNT), however in comparison it is easier to process/functionalize, due to its larger pore size, and is a lower overall cost.
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- Most recent CNF synthesized (much larger amount)
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- A)Multi-wall CNTs are composed of concentric cylinders of graphene where the basal planes form an inert surface. B)The stacked-cup structure of CNF has exposed graphitic edge planes along its length, providing opportunities for chemical modification of the surface for covalent bonding directly with the matrix.
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- CNF synthesized in lab 1
Carbon Nanofiber can act as a supercapacitor, facilitating paper based electronics (film transistors, active matrix displays, sensors, and radio-frequency identification devices). To explore these applications, the first step was to synthesize CNF. This was done with the following steps:
- Carbon fiber, HNO3, Water
- Heat to reflux
- 24 hours
- Vacuum filtration
The product is shown in the gallery above.