Recent advances in laser synthesis of single-walled carbon nanotubes

Very shortly following the discovery of single-walled carbon nanotubes laser-based methods emerged as reliable ways to produce moderate quantities with very consistent composition and properties. They have also proven to be good platforms for the systematic investigation of various synthesis parameters in the hope of better understanding the growth process. Several variations exist with differences such as laser wavelength, number of lasers, background temperature, and target composition. A number of common elements have emerged for the production of both high quality and high yields of SWNT, such as the effectiveness of bimetal catalysts like CoNi and NiY, and the need for high process temperatures and controlling the rate of cooling. Combined with the growing amount of in situ diagnostic and computational modelling data we are slowly making progress towards understanding the growth process. This article will present an overview of recent advancements in laser-based synthesis methods and what information can be extracted about the growth process.