Utilization of Carbon Nanotubes as a Support Material in Metal-Based Catalyst Systems: Applications in Catalysis

Rohaya      Husny Pahmy; Abdul Rahman      Mohamed

doi:10.2174/187221212799436709

Abstract

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), which were discovered in 199, have emerged as one of the most distinctive classes of carbon-allotrope materials. They exhibit various fascinating physical, electronic and mechanical properties, which have stimulated significant interest among researchers. CNT researchers have focused on exploring and deploying CNTs in the area of synthesis and implementing them in numerous applications, such as nanoelectronic devices, compositereinforcement material, catalyst supports, etc. Their combination of light weight, nanoscale diameter, mesoporous structure, high aspect ratio, high thermal conductivity and high stability render them as effective support materials. This review focuses on the applications of CNTs combined with various metal-based particles in the field of catalysis. The effects of the incorporation of CNTs into catalyst systems are discussed in terms of the catalytic activity, reaction selectivity and reaction pathway. The remarkable properties of CNTs that fulfil the requirements of support catalysts are also discussed. Patents relevant to the topic have been discussed.

Keywords: Carbon Nanotubes, Catalysis, Metal-Based Catalyst Systems, catalyst support, chemical oxidation, heterogeneous catalyst, surface functional groups, photocatalytic degradation, nanocomposite, nanoelectronic devices, polymer nanocomposite, nanostructures, multi-walled carbon nanotubes, dehydrogenation, nanoparticles