Synthesis, properties, and examples of the use of carbon nanomaterials

The results of a series of works on the synthesis and investigation of various carbon nanostructures and elaboration of functional materials of their basis are generalized and reviewed. Fullerenes and single-, double-, and multi-walled carbon nanotubes were prepared by the electric arc evaporation of graphite and metal—graphite rods. Diverse types of carbon nanofibers and nanotubes were grown by the catalytic pyrolysis of ethylene and methane. Graphene structures were synthesized by the chemical reduction of graphite oxide. Methods for isolation, purification, and functionalization of carbon nanostructures were elaborated. Chemical transformations in the fullerene—metal phase—hydrogen system were studied. Methods for metal cluster application on carbon nanostuctures and formation of metal hydride—carbon composites were developed. The possibilities were elucidated of using carbon nanostructures for the development of hydrogen accumulating and hydrogen generating composites, for forming carbon—polymer and carbon—ceramic composites, for preparing hardening additives to polymers and glue compositions, and for producing high-performance catalysts for hydrogenation and redox processes in fuel cells.