Abstract
Carbon nanotubes were prepared by catalytic decomposition of $CH_4$ using Ni-MgO catalyst at various temperatures. $H_2$ effect on crystallinity and morphology during the synthesis of carbon nanotubes was investigated. The crystallinity and morphology were characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, TGA, and Raman spectroscopy. In addition, the hydrogen adsorption properties were evaluated by PCT measurement in a hydrogen pressure range between 1 and 120 bar. The optimal synthesis temperature of carbon nanotubes was elevated in the presence of $H_2$, although significant difference of carbon nanotube morphology was not found. It is believed that hydrogen served as self-cleaner mops the amorphous carbon on the catalyst surface. It is proved that the carbon nanotubes have multi-walled structure, short length with a outer diameter of 20 ~40nm and open tips after elimination of the catalyst. The amount of hydrogen adsorbed in carbon nanotubes is increased as the pressure of hydrogen is increased and reaches 1.3 wt % under the hydrogen pressure of 120 bar at room temperature.