Synthesis of carbon nanotubes from the combustion of waste

The objective of the project is to demonstrate the technical feasibility of the synthesis of carbon nanotubes through the process of pyrolysis / combustion of solid waste. Plastic waste, sugar cane and tires will be the object of the study. Currently the project is in phase II, with laboratory tests being carried out at Northeastern University (Boston – USA), in this stage, the residues will be subjected to controlled burning, establishing the growth of nanotubes in a particle catalyst.

The combustion process is a viable alternative for the disposal of waste, as it allows the reduction of areas used as landfills, in addition to producing energy without the need for natural resources. This project aims to combine the benefits of the waste combustion process with obtaining carbon nanotubes.

Few materials have been the subject of as much research as carbon nanotubes, discovered just over 10 years ago, they have electrical and mechanical properties, with applications in virtually all areas. To have an idea of ​​how much the nanotubes will affect the industry, just remember that they have a mechanical resistance 20 times greater than that of steel, but also have flexibility and elasticity, in addition to transporting heat and electricity.

The project will allow the union of the knowledge of researchers in the area of ​​recycling and waste treatment at the Polytechnic School of the University of São Paulo, with researchers in the area of ​​pyrolysis and combustion at the College of Engineering at Northeastern University, in addition to having the support of consultants. the North American company Nano-C (specialized in the manufacture of nanomaterials) and the MIT – Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

The following are some of the nanostructures found in this project.