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Abstract

A method for producing carbon nanotubes by contacting a carbon containing gas with metallic catalytic particles. The catalytic particles contain at least one metal from Group VIII, including for example Co, Ni, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ir, and Pt, and at least one metal from Group VIb including for example Mo, W and Cr. The metal component may be deposited on a support. Preferably, a substantial percentage of the nanotubes formed are single-walled carbon nanotubes. Further, a method for determining catalyst composition and reaction conditions for optimizing production of single-walled carbon nanotubes is also disclosed.

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