Learning nanotechnology through experimentation: carbon nanotube manufacturing using an electric discharge machine

Nanotechnology Reviews

article

Nebojsa Jaksic¹ 

[1] Engineering Department, Colorado State University – Pueblo

关键词: arc discharge;    carbon nanotubes;    electric discharge machine;    engineering education;   

DOI  :  10.1515/ntrev-2011-0012

学科分类：社会科学、人文和艺术（综合）

来源: De Gruyter

【 摘 要 】

A novel nanotechnology laboratory experiment for a required junior/senior undergraduate engineering course, Engineering of Manufacturing Processes, is described and implemented. The experiment demonstrates a process of manufacturing carbon nanotubes using a method representing a variation on arc discharge. Carbon nanotubes are synthesized in oil by electric discharge machining using two graphite electrodes. The results are compared to a known empirical formula for material removal rate in electric discharge machining. A cost analysis of the process, determining the cost of as produced carbon nanotubes is performed. This 2-h experiment is complemented with a single 2-h lecture on nanotechnology creating a lecture-experiment nanotechnology module. Student learning outcomes for the module are developed, assessed, and analyzed. The results show a significant improvement in students’ knowledge. Student perceptions about nanotechnology, carbon nanotube manufacturing, and the need for life-long learning are assessed. Pedagogical justifications and sustainability of the nanotechnology lecture-experiment module within an undergraduate engineering curriculum are addressed.

【 授权许可】

CC BY