Effect of temperature on chemical activation of carbon nanotubes

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with a high specific surface area (SSA) present extensive applications in many fields. In this work, we investigate the nanoporous structures of CNTs activated by KOH under various temperatures of 700, 800, 850, and 900 degrees C. A mild activation will generate a plenty of micro-structures and a strong activation will produce mesopores. A highest specific surface area and a highest pore volume were obtained at a suitable temperature of 850 degrees C. The temperature played an important effect on the activation process. It is suggested that the formation of nanoporous structure on the surface of CNTs may be related to appropriate potassium intercalation at a reasonable temperature. (C) 2008 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.