Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have large specific surface areas as well as superb mechanical and chemical stabilities. These properties make CNTs ideal absorbents for removing pollutants, especially those with aromatic backbones, from water. The practical application of CNTs in water treatment, however, is challenging. Direct using CNTs powders for water treatment requires filtration as post-treatment separation. Filters can, however, be easily clogged by CNTs. To improve the applicability of CNTs by eliminating the need for post-treatment separation, we propose affixing CNTs on engineering supports such as stainless steel mesh (Fig. 1), ceramic honeycomb, and ceramic foam. The engineering supports are rigid three-dimensional structures with large pores or channels that permit water to flow through easily without significant pressure drop. Figure 1. <img src='https://acs-archive-assets2.s3.amazonaws.com/239nm/uploads/7268_toc.jpg' alt='' /> Figure 1. a) Digital photos of plain (left) and CNTs coated (right) stainless steel mesh; SEM image of b) plain and CNTs coated c) stainless steel mesh; d) Raman spectrum of CNTs coated stainless steel mesh.

Direct growth of carbon nanotubes on engineering supports for water treatment

246th National Meeting (2013)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.