Features of carbon layers synthesis on the porous anodic alumina

Carbon nanotubes and graphene are two of the most important forms of nanoscale carbon materials. Both materials can be synthesized by CVD method with the use of various "catalysts". The term "catalyst" is conditional; it refers to a surface, on which graphite islands are formed at a relatively low temperature. Either carbon nanotubes or graphene layers can grow on the surface depending on its shape and physical-chemical properties. As a rule, the materials of such surfaces are the most common metals of auxiliary groups [1], in which the carbon is dissolved after chemical deposition from the gas phase. Then, as a result of supersaturation of carbon solution in metal, the carbon precipitates on the surface in the form of graphite islands, which combine into graphene or nanotubes. However, the ordered carbon structures can be obtained not only by dissolving carbon in metals, but also by using special surfaces, where the surface diffusion of carbon can occur. Aluminum oxide provides an example of such material.