Development of a Physical Process for the Removal of Metallic Nanoparticles from Carbon Nanofiber

Given the global challenge of greenhouse gas emissions, capturing and converting these gases into valuable carbon-based products, such as carbon nanofiber (CNF), offers a sustainable solution. This is the primary goal of this project’s industry partner, Carbonova Corp, by utilizing greenhouse gas feedstocks and turning them into a valuable CNF. During the production of CNF, metal catalysts such as nickel (Ni) and iron (Fe) are employed to facilitate the synthesis process. However, such metal nanoparticles can become entangled with the CNF, leading to contamination. This impurity negatively impacts the physical properties of the CNF, degrading their performance in various applications. The extent to which metal impurities are present directly correlates with a decrease in the effectiveness of CNFs across different applications. This project aims at a novel physical purification process that integrates multiple steps, including ultrasonication, centrifugation, and magnetic separation, without relying on undesirable chemical processes that may negatively alter the properties of the produced CNF. One of the primary challenges in this research is ensuring that all process parameters work in harmony to achieve an optimal purification outcome. By achieving purified CNF from recycled carbon, the need for new raw materials is reduced for use in various applications.

Faculty Supervisor:

Zia Saadatnia

Student:

Partner:

Carbonova

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Program: