Methodology, morphology, and optimization of carbon nanotube growth for improved energy storage in a double layer capacitor

Abstract

The goal of this thesis is to optimize the growth of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on a conducting substrate for use as an electrode to improve energy density in a double-layer capacitor. The focus has been on several areas, such as substrate material, growth conditions, catalyst variations, and thin-film deposition techniques in order to achieve growth of a high density, vertically-aligned carbon nanotube array suitable for use as an electrode. This thesis describes the methodology of modifying a significant number of parameters in order to achieve all of the targeted electrode specifications, with the exception of nanotube density. The successful growth of a CNT array on an aluminum foil substrate marks an important milestone for realizing a future commercial product.