A new route for synthesis of CNTs (Carbon Nano Tubes) was investigated by RF thermal plasma
decomposition of methane injected with metal-oxide catalyst. From the FE-SEM images of the
as-synthesized samples, it was found that multi-walled carbon nanotubes are mainly synthesized on
the surface of the quartz guide, which is employed for expanding and confining RF thermal plasma
flow issuing out of the RF torch exit. The lengths and the purity of as-synthesized CNTs were
estimated to reach several tens ㎛ and ~70%, respectively. Little of CNTs, however, were observed
in the as-synthesized samples retrieved from various positions, such as, quenching chamber and
filtration. These experimental results show that CNTs can be continuously synthesized in the reaction
zone specified by a reactor coupled with RF torch. For the formation of raction zone, carbon species
and the catalyst particles were supplied continuously by RF thermal plasma decomposition of methane
and its surface temperatures were also controlled by quenching gas flow rates in a reactor.