Free-standing carbon nanofiber networks

Abstract We report a facile approach to the fabrication of free-standing three-dimensional carbon nanofiber (CNF) networks, by loading copper nitrates on aluminum (Al) foils, performing chemical vapour deposition (CVD), and finally etching away Al foils via sodium hydroxide. During CVD, copper-nitrate-derived copper nanoparticles catalyze growth of CNF networks on Al foils, and the CNF networks are then liberated after removal of Al foils. The resultant free-standing CNF networks exhibit porous, hydrophobic, lightweight, and highly flexible properties, and the combination of these properties enables CNF networks to absorb various oils with high absorption capacity and excellent recyclability. This work may benefit the rational design of advanced absorbents for applications in cleanup of oil spillage.