Bio-based production of carbon nanotubes via co-pyrolysis of eucalyptus oil and ferrocene

Abstract

To comply with the sustainable development goals (SDGs), bio-based production of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) was investigated using co-pyrolysis of eucalyptus oil and ferrocene instead of non-valorizable petroleum-based hydrocarbons. Attributed to high carbon content of eucalyptus oil, CNTs with substantial yield could be produced within a pyrolyzing temperature (Tp) range of 800−900 °C and different molar ratios of eucalyptus oil to ferrocene (Rof) including 1:1, 2:1 and 3:1. Typical FESEM analyses of as-produced CNTs revealed that CNTs with agglomeration of amorphous carbon could be produced at low Tp and low Rof. Meanwhile higher Tp and Rof could provide CNTs with lower content of amorphous carbon. TGA analyses could confirm the superior thermal stability of the resultant CNTs which were produced at high Tp and Rof. The highest CNT yield of about 45 % was obtained at Tp of 850 °C and Rof of 1:1. It could be confirmed that Tp of 900 °C and Rof of 3:1 was the optimal condition for production of high quality CNTs from valorizable eucalyptus oil.