Process and apparatus for producing composite material that includes carbon nanotubes

Abstract

A process and an apparatus for producing a composite material utilize a rotatable hollow body that is inclined with an upstream side being higher than a downstream side. A reaction zone is defined within an elongated chamber in the hollow body. Protrusions inwardly extend from an inner peripheral wall of the hollow body adjacent to the reaction zone. Base material is input into the chamber via a base material introduction port and a carbon source vapor is input into the chamber via a carbon source supply port. A heater heats the reaction zone to a temperature at which carbon nanotubes form on the base material from the carbon source vapor. The protrusions catch base material disposed on the inner peripheral wall of the hollow body when the hollow body rotates and then drop the base material through the reaction zone so that the base material contacts the carbon source vapor.