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Abstract

Process for producing nanomaterials such as graphenes, graphene composites, magnesium oxide, magnesium hydroxides and other nanomaterials by high heat vaporization and rapid cooling. In some of the preferred embodiments, the high heat is produced by an oxidation-reduction reaction of carbon dioxide and magnesium as the primary reactants, although additional materials as reaction catalysts, control agents, or composite materials can be included in the reaction, if desired. The carbon dioxide and magnesium are combusted together in a reactor to produce nano-magnesium oxide, graphenes, graphene composites, and possibly other products which are then separated or excluded by suitable processes or reactions to provide the individual reaction products. The reaction is highly energetic, producing very high temperatures on the order of 5610° F. (3098° C.), or higher, and also produces large amounts of useful energy in the form of heat and light, including infrared and ultraviolet radiation, all of which can be captured and reused in the invention or utilized in other applications. The products of combustion, particularly the magnesium oxide, can be recycled to provide additional oxidizing agents for combustion with the carbon dioxide. By varying the process parameters, such as reaction temperature and pressure, the type and morphology of the carbon nanoproducts and other nanoproducts can be controlled. The reaction also produces nanomaterials from a variety of input materials. The reaction products include novel nanocrystals of MgO (percilase) and MgAl₂O₄ (spinels) as well as composites of these nanocrystals with multiple layers of graphene deposited on or intercalated with them.

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First Claim