Novel solid-cored carbon nanofiber grown on steels substrates in ethanol flames

This is a continuation of our previous research on synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) by using an ethanol flame [1,2]. Previously, we reported that carbon nanotubes (CNTs), including well-aligned CNTs, have been successfully produced on austenitic stainless steels within ethanol flame environment. Recently, a novel solid-cored carbon nanofiber (CNF) was found when using carbon steel or low alloy steel as the substrate. In the present paper, the character of the CNFs and the growth mechanism are discussed.