Carbon-coated nanoparticle formation and plasma torch synthesis

Preliminary tests of plasma torches for the production of carbon-coated nanoparticles are described. Following a summary of carbon-coated nanoparticle synthesis using a carbon are and other methods, we describe two types of plasma torches, used to prepare nanoparticles. In a plasma torch, the plasma can be generated either using a DC are or through RF inductive coupling. Based on our transmission electron microscopy results, we have identified RF plasma torch synthesis as the better means of scaling up carbon coated nanoparticle production. The RF plasma is crucial to developing the carbon coatings because it can provide enough power to vaporize the carbon feedstock.