Abstract
The University of Central Florida invention is a fast, cost-effective approach to producing nanoparticle catalysts on carbon fibers using microwave heating. Using the approach, researchers were also able to grow carbon nanotubes on the carbon fibers. Supported nanoparticle composites serve a vital role in a wide range of chemical applications, including energy storage, energy conversion and pollutant degradation.
The UCF process has the benefits of 1) operating under ambient atmosphere to produce metallic nanoparticles, 2) reliably producing small (approximately 5-20 nm) nanoparticles in seconds, and 3) producing nanostructures such as carbon nanotubes in the same simple process. The approach is readily adaptable to existing carbon fiber manufacturing processes, rendering this important technology more economically valuable to growing industries.
Stage of Development
Prototype available.
Benefit
Improves the atomic efficiency of the selected elementsProduces metallic nanoparticles, rather than oxides, under ambient atmosphere to expand the list of possible composite materialsEnables nanostructures such as carbon nanotubes in the same simple processMarket Application
Mass production of carbon fiber and nanoparticle compositesEnables heterogeneous catalysis, especially electrocatalysis for hydrogen evolution, chemical conversion and pollutant degradationEnergy storage, sensing and other applications
Brochure
