Carbon nanotube recovery apparatus, carbon nanotube manufacturing apparatus, and carbon nanotube recovery method

Abstract

A carbon nanotube recovery device, wherein the carbon nanotube recovery device has: a recovery chamber having an opening portion communicating with a carbon nanotube generation device; a winding member disposed in the recovery chamber, the winding member winding a carbon nanotube after the carbon nanotube passes through the opening portion from the carbon nanotube generation device to form a carbon nanotube winding body; and a separation mechanism that moves the carbon nanotube winding body from a base end side of the winding member toward a top end side to separate the carbon nanotube winding body from the winding member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a carbon nanotube recycling apparatus, a carbon nanotube manufacturing apparatus having the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus, and a method for recycling carbon nanotubes. Background Technology

[0002] Carbon nanotubes possess excellent properties such as electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, and mechanical strength, making them a promising new material attracting attention in many fields. As a manufacturing apparatus for carbon nanotubes, Patent Document 1 discloses a manufacturing apparatus using chemical vapor deposition (CVD), in which carbon-containing raw materials (carbon sources) are thermally decomposed to generate carbon nanotubes.

[0003] Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses a recycling device installed in or near the recycling section of a reactor that generates carbon nanotubes using the CVD method. The recycling device described in Patent Document 2 is a device that, by rotating a winding member that winds up carbon nanotubes, the carbon nanotubes are wound into a coil to form a coiled body, and the coiled body is taken out from a take-out port provided in the recycling section to recycle the carbon nanotubes.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-064918

[0007] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2004-190166 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0009] In the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus described in Patent Document 2, the coiled carbon nanotubes are removed from the recycling section when they reach a predetermined diameter. Therefore, for each coiled carbon nanotube produced, the carbon nanotube generation apparatus needs to be stopped, the reactor cooled, and the atmosphere in the reactor replaced. Furthermore, after recycling the carbon nanotubes, the carbon nanotube generation apparatus needs to be restarted after atmosphere replacement and reactor heating. In other words, in the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus described in Patent Document 2, the time without carbon nanotube generation is relatively long when recycling each coiled coil. Therefore, in the case of mass production of carbon nanotubes, there is a problem that the manufacturing time for producing the desired quantity of carbon nanotubes becomes longer.

[0010] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a carbon nanotube recycling apparatus, a carbon nanotube manufacturing apparatus, and a carbon nanotube manufacturing method that can shorten the manufacturing time until a desired amount of carbon nanotubes are produced in the mass production of carbon nanotubes.

[0011] Solution for solving the problem

[0012] To address the aforementioned issues, the inventors of this invention have realized that by providing a separation mechanism that detaches the carbon nanotube winding from the winding member, the formation and separation of the carbon nanotube winding can be performed continuously. Furthermore, it has been discovered that by providing this separation mechanism, multiple carbon nanotube windings can be recovered simultaneously, reducing the recovery frequency of the carbon nanotube windings, thus completing this invention.

[0013] The present invention discloses a technical solution to solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0014] [1] A carbon nanotube recycling apparatus for recycling carbon nanotubes generated by a carbon nanotube generating apparatus, wherein the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus comprises: a recycling chamber having an opening communicating with the carbon nanotube generating apparatus; a winding member disposed in the recycling chamber for winding the carbon nanotubes after they pass through the opening from the carbon nanotube generating apparatus to form a carbon nanotube winding; and a separation mechanism for moving the carbon nanotube winding from the base end side toward the top end side of the winding member to separate the carbon nanotube winding from the winding member.

[0015] [2] According to the carbon nanotube recycling device of [1], the carbon nanotube recycling device has a separation member disposed on the base end side of the winding member and in contact with the carbon nanotube winding body, the separation mechanism being a mechanism for moving one or both of the winding member and the separation member in such a way that the top end of the winding member and the separation member are relatively close to each other.

[0016] [3] According to the carbon nanotube recycling device of [2], the separation mechanism is a mechanism that moves the winding member in the direction of being pulled out of the recycling chamber.

[0017] [4] According to the carbon nanotube recycling device of [2], the separating member is an ejector member disposed in the recycling chamber, and the separating mechanism is a mechanism that moves the ejector member from the base end side of the winding member toward the top end side to eject the carbon nanotube winding body from the top end of the winding member, thereby separating the carbon nanotube winding body.

[0018] [5] According to the carbon nanotube recycling device of [4], the ejection member is formed in such a way as to surround the outer periphery of the winding member.

[0019] [6] The carbon nanotube recycling apparatus according to any one of [1] to [5], wherein the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus has a guiding member that guides the carbon nanotubes after the opening to the winding member.

[0020] [7] A carbon nanotube recycling apparatus according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus comprises: a rotating body on which the base end of the winding member is mounted; and a compression member in contact with the carbon nanotube winding wound on the winding member, the compression member extending along the rotation axis of the rotating body and, when viewed from the rotation axis of the rotating body, the compression member being disposed to the side of the winding member.

[0021] [8] According to the carbon nanotube recycling device of [7], the compression member is configured to rotate in a direction opposite to the rotation direction of the winding member.

[0022] [9] A carbon nanotube recycling apparatus according to any one of [1] to [8], wherein the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus has a rotating body on which the base end of the winding member is mounted, the winding member being supported in the shape of a cantilever beam on the rotating body.

[0023]

[10] The carbon nanotube recycling apparatus according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus is provided with a plurality of said winding members, the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus having a first rotating body with a base end of a first winding member installed and a second rotating body with a base end of a second winding member installed, the rotation axis of the first rotating body and the rotation axis of the second rotating body being in a direction perpendicular to the center line of the opening and in a horizontal direction.

[0024]

[11] According to the carbon nanotube recycling device described in

[10] , the positions of the rotation axis of the first rotating body and the rotation axis of the second rotating body are different in the direction perpendicular to the center line of the opening when viewed from the rotation axis direction of the first rotating body.

[0025]

[12] According to the carbon nanotube recycling device of

[11] , the center line of the opening is located between the rotation axis of the first rotating body and the rotation axis of the second rotating body.

[0026]

[13] According to the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus of

[12] , when the area extending from the opening toward the inside of the recycling chamber along the center line of the opening is defined as the exit side area of ​​the opening, the width of the exit side area and the width of the opening are the same length when viewed from the rotation axis direction of the first rotating body, and none of the plurality of winding members are disposed in the exit side area.

[0027]

[14] The carbon nanotube recycling apparatus according to any one of

[11] to

[13] , wherein the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus has a third rotating body with a base end of a third winding member and a fourth rotating body with a base end of a fourth winding member, the rotation axis of the third rotating body and the rotation axis of the fourth rotating body are in a direction perpendicular to the center line of the opening and are in a horizontal direction, the first winding member is disposed between the wall surface of the recycling chamber having the opening and the third winding member, and the second winding member is disposed between the wall surface and the fourth winding member.

[0028]

[15] According to the carbon nanotube recycling device of

[14] , the center line of the opening is located between the rotation axis of the first rotating body and the rotation axis of the second rotating body, the center line of the opening is located between the rotation axis of the third rotating body and the rotation axis of the fourth rotating body, and the interval between the third winding member and the fourth winding member is greater than the interval between the first winding member and the second winding member.

[0029]

[16] A carbon nanotube manufacturing apparatus, wherein the carbon nanotube manufacturing apparatus comprises: a generating apparatus that generates carbon nanotubes; and a carbon nanotube recycling apparatus as described in any one of [1] to

[15] .

[0030]

[17] A method for recycling carbon nanotubes, wherein the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus described in [1] or [2] is used, wherein the carbon nanotube recycling method comprises: a forming step in which carbon nanotubes passing through the opening of the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus are wound up by the winding member to form a carbon nanotube winding body; and a separation step in which the carbon nanotube winding body is moved from the base end side to the top end side of the winding member to separate the carbon nanotube winding body from the winding member, and after the forming step and the separation step are repeated to form a plurality of the carbon nanotube winding bodies, the carbon nanotube winding bodies are recycled from the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus.

[0031]

[18] According to the carbon nanotube recycling method of

[17] , in the separation step, the carbon nanotube winding is separated from the winding member by moving the winding member in a direction of being pulled out from the recycling chamber.

[0032]

[19] According to the carbon nanotube recycling method of

[17] , in the separation step, the carbon nanotube winding is separated from the winding member by pushing the carbon nanotube winding from the base end side toward the top end side of the winding member.

[0033] The effects of the invention

[0034] According to the present invention, a carbon nanotube recycling apparatus, a carbon nanotube manufacturing apparatus, and a carbon nanotube manufacturing method are provided that can shorten the manufacturing time until a desired amount of carbon nanotubes are produced during mass production of carbon nanotubes. Attached Figure Description

[0035] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic structure of the carbon nanotube manufacturing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 2 It is a three-dimensional diagram showing the general structure around the winding component.

[0037] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 An enlarged view of the winding component.

[0038] Figure 4 From Figure 1 The image observed is in the direction of arrow A.

[0039] Figure 5 It is a diagram showing the state of the ejector component after it has moved to the ejection position.

[0040] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the shape of the ejected component.

[0041] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the fixed position of a guide component.

[0042] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the fixed position of a guide component.

[0043] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing the separation action of a carbon nanotube coil.

[0044] Figure 10 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the cycle process in the mass production of carbon nanotubes.

[0045] Figure 11This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic structure of the separation mechanism in the second embodiment.

[0046] Figure 12 Viewed from above Figure 11 A diagram of the area surrounding the winding mechanism.

[0047] Figure 13 From Figure 11 The direction of arrow B is observed in the diagram.

[0048] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the state of the winding component after it has moved to the pull-out position.

[0049] Figure 15 This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic structure of the separation mechanism in the third embodiment.

[0050] Figure 16 Viewed from above Figure 15 A diagram of the area surrounding the winding mechanism.

[0051] Figure 17 From Figure 15 The direction of arrow C is observed in the diagram.

[0052] Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating an example 1 of the configuration of a winding member in the case where multiple winding members consisting of rollers are provided.

[0053] Figure 19 It is a schematic representation of viewing from above. Figure 18 A diagram showing the configuration of the various winding components and rotating bodies during the recovery chamber.

[0054] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating an example 2 of the configuration of a winding member in the case where multiple winding members consisting of rollers are provided.

[0055] Figure 21 It is a schematic representation of viewing from above. Figure 20 A diagram showing the configuration of the winding components and rotating body during the recovery chamber.

[0056] Figure 22 It is a schematic representation of viewing from below. Figure 21 A diagram showing the configuration of the winding components and rotating body during the recovery chamber.

[0057] Figure 23 It is a diagram used to illustrate the flow of carrier gas and the state of carbon nanotubes after passing through the opening.

[0058] Figure 24 It means to utilize Figure 20 The diagram shows the state of the carbon nanotubes being wound up by the winding component.

[0059] Figure 25This diagram illustrates the flow of carrier gas and the state of carbon nanotubes when the reaction tube is located on the side of the recovery chamber.

[0060] Figure 26 This diagram shows the outlet area of ​​the opening when the reaction tube is located on the side of the recovery chamber.

[0061] Figure 27 This is a diagram illustrating an example 3 of the configuration of a winding member in the case where multiple winding members consisting of rollers are provided. Detailed Implementation

[0062] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in this specification and the accompanying drawings, elements having substantially the same functional structure are omitted from repeated description by using the same reference numerals.

[0063] (First Embodiment)

[0064] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic structure of the CNT manufacturing apparatus 1 for manufacturing carbon nanotubes (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as "CNT") according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a three-dimensional view showing the general structure around the winding member 42. Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Enlarged view of the winding component 42. Figure 4 From Figure 1 The direction of arrow A is observed in the diagram. Furthermore, in... Figure 4 The covering member 60, which will be described later, is not shown in the figure.

[0065] like Figure 1 As shown, the CNT manufacturing apparatus 1 includes a CNT generating apparatus 2 for generating CNTs and a CNT recycling apparatus 3 located at the lower end of the CNT generating apparatus 2 for recycling CNTs. In the following description, the CNT generating apparatus 2 will sometimes be referred to as "generating apparatus 2" and the CNT recycling apparatus 3 as "recycling apparatus 3".

[0066] In the diagram, the "X direction" represents the depth of the recovery device 3, the "Y direction" represents the width of the recovery device 3, and the "Z direction" represents the height of the recovery device 3. All directions X through Z are perpendicular to each other. Furthermore, the structure of the CNT manufacturing apparatus 1 is not limited to that shown in the diagram; therefore, due to differences in the structure of the CNT manufacturing apparatus 1, there may be cases where the Z direction is not the height direction. Additionally, the CNTs in this specification are tubular carbon isotopes (typically cylindrical structures with a graphite structure), including so-called monolayer CNTs, multilayer CNTs, or carbon nanotubes with angular tips.

[0067] <Carbon Nanotube Generation Device>

[0068] The structure of the generating apparatus 2 is not particularly limited as long as it can generate CNTs. For example, an apparatus that uses chemical vapor deposition (CVD) to generate CNTs by thermally decomposing a carbon-containing feed gas, as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2, can be used as generating apparatus 2.

[0069] Figure 1 The generating apparatus 2 shown has a reaction tube 21, a heater 22 located on the side of the reaction tube 21, and a raw material supply port 23 for supplying raw materials such as gas, catalyst metal or catalyst metal compound, which will become carbon source, to the reaction tube 21.

[0070] The shape of the reaction tube 21 is not limited, but it is preferably a straight tube (i.e., a shape in which the axis extends in a straight line). Additionally, the cross-sectional shape of the reaction tube 21 can also be polygonal or circular, elliptical, oval, kidney-shaped, or other shapes with arcs. The shape and heating method of the heater 22 are not particularly limited, as long as they can heat the reaction tube 21 to a temperature suitable for CNT formation. For example, the heater 22 can preferably heat the reaction tube 21 to 500°C to 2000°C, and more preferably to 1000°C to 1600°C. For example, a tungsten heater capable of heating the reaction tube 21 to 500°C to 2000°C or a silicon carbide heater (SiC heater) capable of heating the reaction tube 21 to 600°C to 1600°C can be used as the heater 22.

[0071] <Carbon Nanotube Recycling Device>

[0072] The recycling device 3 has a recycling chamber 30 for recycling CNTs, a winding mechanism 40 for winding CNTs, and a separation mechanism 50 for separating the CNT winding body R.

[0073] The shape of the recovery chamber 30 is not particularly limited; in this embodiment, the recovery chamber 30 is formed into a cuboid shape. The recovery chamber 30 has side portions 30a and 30b that are wall surfaces perpendicular to the X direction, and side portions 30c and 30d that are wall surfaces perpendicular to the Y direction. Figure 4 ), and the top surface 30e and bottom surface 30f, which are walls perpendicular to the Z direction.

[0074] An opening 31 communicating with the lower end of the reaction tube 21 of the generating device 2 is provided on the top surface 30e of the recovery chamber 30. The CNTs generated in the reaction tube 21 are transported into the recovery chamber 30 together with the raw material gas through the opening 31. The recovery chamber 30 has a volume capable of accommodating multiple CNT windings R separated from the winding member 42 described later.

[0075] A winding mechanism 40 for winding CNTs is provided on the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30. The winding mechanism 40 has a rotating body 41, a winding member 42, and a drive unit 43.

[0076] The rotating body 41 is provided to penetrate the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30, and a portion of the rotating body 41 protrudes into the recovery chamber 30. The shape of the rotating body 41 is preferably, for example, cylindrical.

[0077] The rotating body 41 is preferably arranged to extend perpendicularly to the axis L of the reaction tube 21 of the generating device 2. Furthermore, in Figure 1 In the example shown, as an example of a direction perpendicular to the axis L, a rotating body 41 extending along the X direction is illustrated. For example, the Y direction is also perpendicular to the axis L, and the rotating body 41 can also extend along the Y direction. In addition, when the axis L is oriented vertically, both the X and Y directions are perpendicular to the vertical direction (i.e., horizontal directions). Therefore, in this case, the rotating body 41 extending along the X or Y direction can also be described as extending horizontally.

[0078] Furthermore, the reaction tube 21 is sometimes arranged with its axis L oriented horizontally. For example, when the axis L of the reaction tube 21 is oriented in the X direction, the direction perpendicular to the axis L is, for example, the Y direction or the Z direction.

[0079] The winding member 42 is a member extending along the axial direction of the rotating body 41. The base end of the winding member 42 is mounted on the top end of the rotating body 41 (the end on the side of the recovery chamber 30), and the winding member 42 is supported on the rotating body 41 in a cantilever beam shape. Furthermore, there is no particular limitation on the installation position of the winding member 42; the winding member 42 only needs to be located at a position that allows it to contact the CNTs passing through the opening 31 of the recovery chamber 30.

[0080] like Figure 3 As shown, three winding members 42 are arranged at equal intervals along the circumference of the rotating body 41. The number of winding members 42 is not limited to this; there can be at least one. However, by providing multiple winding members 42, the contact frequency between the CNT and the winding members 42 after passing through the opening 31 can be increased. Therefore, the CNT is easily wound around the winding members 42, and a CNT winding body R can be easily formed. From the viewpoint of achieving this effect, it is preferable to have two to six winding members 42. More preferably, three to four.

[0081] Furthermore, the shape of the take-up member 42 is not particularly limited as long as it can be a shape that can form a CNT wound body R, such as a cone, a pyramid, a cylinder, or a prism. However, when one take-up member 42 is provided at the rotation center of the rotating body 41, the take-up member 42 is preferably cylindrical. This allows the inner diameter of the annular wound body R to be constant, and reduces the coefficient of friction between the inner circumferential surface of the CNT wound body R and the take-up member 42 when the CNT wound body R is separated from the take-up member 42.

[0082] The drive unit 43 is located outside the recovery chamber 30. The drive unit 43 may be, for example, a motor. A rotating body 41, on which the winding member 42 is mounted, is connected to the drive unit 43. By rotating the rotating body 41 using the drive unit 43, the winding member 42 also rotates integrally with the rotating body 41. The rotational speed of the rotating body 41 is appropriately set according to the CNT production speed and the desired size of the CNT winding R, for example, set to 0.01 rpm to 500 rpm.

[0083] According to the winding mechanism 40 configured as described above, the CNTs generated by the generating device 2 and passing through the opening 31 come into contact with the winding member 42, which rotates integrally with the rotating body 41. Then, the CNTs in contact with the winding member 42 are wound into a ring-shaped roll along the imaginary circle of the track of the winding member 42 as the rotating body 41 rotates, forming a CNT winding body R.

[0084] like Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a separation mechanism 50 for separating the CNT winding R from the take-up member 42 is provided on the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30. The separation mechanism 50 includes an ejection member 51 for ejecting the CNT winding R, a drive rod 52 connected to the ejection member 51, and a drive unit 53 for applying a driving force to move the drive rod 52 in the X direction. A portion of the drive rod 52 is arranged to protrude from the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30 into the recovery chamber 30.

[0085] The ejector member 51 is an example of a separation member disposed on the base end side of the take-up member 42 and in contact with the CNT winding body R. In this embodiment, the ejector member 51 is formed as a flat plate and disposed in the recovery chamber 30 with an orientation perpendicular to the X direction. The ejector member 51 has an opening 51a through which the rotating body 41 and the take-up member 42 can pass. Figure 4 By providing this opening 51a, even if the ejector 51 moves in the X direction, the ejector 51 will not interfere with the rotating body 41 and the winding member 42.

[0086] The shape of the ejector 51 is not particularly limited, as long as it is shaped to contact the CNT winding body R when the ejector 51 moves from the base end side of the take-up member 42 toward the top end side. For example Figure 4 The ejector component 51 shown is shaped to surround the outer periphery of the rotating body 41 and the winding component 42, but the ejector component 51 is as follows: Figure 6 The shape shown can also be a partial shape that only surrounds the outer periphery of the rotating body 41 and the winding member 42. Furthermore, Figure 6 In the example, the opening 51a of the ejector member 51 is a semi-circular notch formed at the lower end of the ejector member 51.

[0087] To suppress adhesion between the ejector component 51 and the contacted CNT winding R, a Teflon (registered trademark) coating may also be applied to the surface of the ejector component 51.

[0088] The drive unit 53 is located outside the recovery chamber 30. A drive rod 52, on which the ejector member 51 is mounted, is connected to the drive unit 53. The drive rod 52 is configured to move along the rotation axis (X direction) of the winding member 42 via the drive unit 53. Thus, the ejector member 51 can move towards or away from the tip of the winding member 42. Furthermore, the structure of the drive unit 53 is not particularly limited as long as it generates a driving force that moves the ejector member 51 from the base end side towards the tip side of the winding member 42. For example, a cylinder that causes the ejector member 51 to move linearly is preferably used as the drive unit 53. For example, a pneumatic cylinder, a hydraulic cylinder, or an electric cylinder can be used as the cylinder.

[0089] The above describes the recycling chamber 30, the winding mechanism 40, and the separating mechanism 50 of the recycling device 3. However, if... Figure 1 and Figure 2 As shown, a covering member 60 can also be provided inside the recovery chamber 30. The covering member 60 is provided on the inner side of the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30 and has a shape that covers a local area in the axial direction (X direction) of the rotating body 41 and the drive rod 52. By providing such a covering member 60, it is possible to suppress CNTs from adhering to the rotating body 41 and the drive rod 52, making maintenance work easier.

[0090] Alternatively, a guide member 70 may be provided within the recycling chamber 30. The guide member 70 is used to guide the CNTs after they pass through the opening 31 to the winding member 42. The shape and structure of the guide member 70 are not particularly limited; in this embodiment, the guide member 70 consists of a pair of plate-shaped members 71 and 72 (…). Figure 4The plate-shaped members 71 and 72 are configured such that they extend in a direction from the opening 31 of the recovery chamber 30 toward the winding member 42, and sandwich the winding member 42 from the side. Therefore, when viewed from the direction of the rotation axis (X direction) of the winding member 42, both the upper and lower ends of the pair of plate-shaped members 71 and 72 are open. Furthermore, the spacing between the plate-shaped members 71 and 72 varies from the upper end to the lower end, and the spacing between the plate-shaped members 71 and 72 narrows from the opening 31 of the recovery chamber 30 toward the winding member 42.

[0091] By controlling the airflow of the gas flowing into the recovery chamber 30 using the guide member 70 with the shape described above, the airflow can be rectified to direct the airflow toward the winding member 42. This prevents CNTs from adhering to the vicinity of the opening 31 due to airflow turbulence and inhibits blockage at the lower end of the reaction tube 21. Furthermore, the guide member 70 with the shape described above allows more CNTs to be guided to the winding member 42, improving the CNT recovery rate. From the viewpoint of maximizing the aforementioned effect, the spacing between the upper ends (ends on the opening 31 side) of the plate members 71 and 72 is preferably greater than the diameter of the opening 31.

[0092] Furthermore, when the guide member 70 is composed of a pair of plate-like members 71 and 72, such as Figure 7 and Figure 8 As shown, it is preferable to be able to adjust the fixed position of each plate-shaped member 71, 72 in the Y direction. Figure 7 and Figure 8 In the example shown, a flat plate 73 is joined to the end face (the end face of the paper depth side) on the side portion 30b of the plate members 71 and 72. This flat plate 73 is fixed, for example, by bolts at at least two of the predetermined fixing points 74. With this structure, the spacing between the plate members 71 and 72 can be adjusted according to the desired size of the CNT winding R. Furthermore, the shapes of the winding member 42 and the ejection member 51 can also be appropriately changed according to the fixing positions of each plate member 71 and 72.

[0093] The CNT manufacturing apparatus 1 of this embodiment is configured as described above. Furthermore, the material of each component constituting the CNT manufacturing apparatus 1 is not particularly limited, as long as it does not hinder the CNT formation process; for example, stainless steel can be used. In this embodiment, for example, stainless steel can be used for the raw material supply port 23 of the CNT generating apparatus 2, the recovery chamber 30 of the CNT recovery apparatus 3, the opening 31, the rotating body 41, the winding member 42, the ejector member 51, the drive rod 52, the covering member 60, and the guide members 70 (plate-shaped members 71, 72 and flat plate 73). Additionally, a Teflon coating can be applied to the components that may come into contact with CNTs in each component constituting the CNT manufacturing apparatus 1. In this embodiment, for example, a Teflon coating can be applied to the winding member 42, the ejector member 51, the covering member 60, and the guide member 70.

[0094] Next, the method for recycling CNTs using CNT manufacturing apparatus 1 will be explained.

[0095] (The formation process of CNT windings)

[0096] First, the CNTs generated in the reaction tube 21 of the generating device 2, together with the carrier gas, move from the opening 31 of the recovery chamber 30 provided in the recovery device 3 into the recovery chamber 30. Here, the CNTs introduced into the recovery chamber 30 reach the winding member 42 disposed below the opening 31. At this time, the winding member 42 is in a state of rotating about the rotation axis of the rotating body 41, and the CNTs that reach the winding member 42 are wound up by the winding member 42, thereby forming a CNT winding body R.

[0097] In the above-mentioned CNT winding body R forming process, after the CNT winding body R is formed to a predetermined size, a separation process is performed to separate the CNT winding body R from the winding member 42.

[0098] (Separation process of CNT winding)

[0099] During the separation process, the CNT winding body R can be separated while CNT generation is ongoing. However, for example, while maintaining the heating of the reaction tube 21, the amount of raw material supplied to the reaction tube 21 can be reduced to decrease the amount of CNTs generated, or the raw material supply itself can be stopped to temporarily halt CNT generation. By reducing the amount of CNTs generated or temporarily stopping CNT generation in this way, the amount of CNTs not wound by the winding member 42 can be reduced. Furthermore, if multiple winding mechanisms 40 are provided, for example, one winding mechanism can be used to form the CNT winding body R, and when separating the CNT winding body R from this winding mechanism, the winding mechanism used for winding the CNTs can be switched to another winding mechanism. Therefore, even during the separation operation of the CNT winding body R, other winding mechanisms can be used to wind CNTs, making it easier to maintain the amount of CNTs generated.

[0100] like Figure 9 As shown in (A), at the beginning of the separation process, the ejector member 51 is in a position where it is not in contact with the CNT wound body R (initial position). Furthermore, the initial position of the ejector member 51 is preferably located on the side of the rotating body 41 closer to the base end of the winding member 42. Therefore, during the formation process of the CNT wound body R, it is difficult for the CNTs to adhere to the ejector member 51, thus enabling the CNT wound body R to be formed into a roll.

[0101] After the ejection component 51 is in its initial position, as follows Figure 9 As shown in (B), it advances toward the top end of the winding member 42. This causes the ejector member 51 to come into contact with the CNT winding body R.

[0102] Then, as Figure 9 As shown in (C), after the ejector member 51 and the take-up member 42 have come into contact, the ejector member 51 is further advanced to the ejection position. This results in the inner circumferential surface of the CNT wound body R not being supported by the take-up member 42, and the CNT wound body R detaches from the take-up member 42. Furthermore, the ejection position of the ejector member 51 can be any position that allows the CNT wound body R to detach from the top end of the take-up member 42.

[0103] By actuating the ejector member 51 as described above, the CNT winding body R is separated from the take-up member 42. Then, by retracting the ejector member 51 from the ejection position... Figure 9 The initial position shown in (A) marks the end of the separation process.

[0104] After the separation process is completed, the formation process of CNT winding body R is performed again. By repeating the formation and separation processes of CNT winding body R, multiple CNT winding bodies R are accumulated at the bottom of the recycling chamber 30, and the CNT winding bodies R are temporarily stored in the recycling chamber 30.

[0105] As described above, the CNT recycling apparatus 3 according to this embodiment can use the separation mechanism 50 to separate the CNT winding R formed by the winding member 42 from the winding member 42. Simultaneously, the separated CNT winding R can be temporarily stored in the recycling chamber 30. Therefore, even if the CNT winding R is not recycled each time it is formed, the formation and separation of the subsequent CNT winding R can be repeated. Then, at a predetermined time, each CNT winding R temporarily stored in the recycling chamber 30 can be recycled together.

[0106] If the aforementioned recycling device 3 is used during the mass production of CNTs, then, for example, it is possible to follow... Figure 10 The illustrated cyclic process manufactures the CNT wound body R. Furthermore, in... Figure 10 The diagram also illustrates the cyclic flow of a conventional recycling device where each CNT winding R needs to be recycled after its formation. Figure 10 As shown, in conventional recycling devices, since each CNT winding R needs to be recycled after it is formed, only one CNT winding R can be manufactured in one cycle. On the other hand, according to the recycling device 3 in this embodiment, by providing a separation mechanism 50, the formation and separation of multiple CNT windings R can be repeated during one cycle. Therefore, compared with conventional recycling devices, the production volume of CNT windings R per cycle can be increased. As a result, in the case of mass production of CNTs, the manufacturing time until the desired amount of carbon nanotubes is produced can be shortened.

[0107] (Second Implementation)

[0108] In the first embodiment described above, the CNT wound body R is pushed towards the top end of the take-up member 42 by the push-out member 51, thereby separating the take-up member 42 and the CNT wound body R. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the CNT wound body R is separated by pulling the take-up member 42 outward from the recovery chamber 30, thereby moving it from the base end side of the take-up member 42 towards the top end side. Hereinafter, refer to... Figures 11-14 The second implementation method is described below.

[0109] Figure 11 This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic structure of the separation mechanism 50 in the second embodiment. Figure 12 Viewed from above Figure 11 A diagram of the periphery of the winding mechanism 40. Figure 13 From Figure 11 The direction of arrow B is observed in the diagram. Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the state of the winding member 42 after it has moved to the pull-out position.

[0110] like Figure 11 As shown, the top surface 30e of the recovery chamber 30, similar to the first embodiment, has an opening 31 communicating with the lower end of the reaction tube 21 of the generating device 2. The CNTs generated in the reaction tube 21 are conveyed into the recovery chamber 30 through the opening 31. In this embodiment, the shape of the winding member 42 is not particularly limited, but... Figure 11 In the example shown, the take-up member 42 is composed of a cylindrical or cylindrical component (i.e., a roller). The take-up member 42 is connected to one end of the rotating body 41, and the drive unit 43 is connected to the other end of the rotating body 41. Furthermore, the axis of rotation of the rotating body 41 is oriented towards an axis L extending in the vertical direction. Figure 1 The vertical direction and the horizontal direction.

[0111] In this embodiment, the separation mechanism 50 is a mechanism that moves the rotating body 41, the winding member 42, and the drive unit 43 in a direction from the inside of the recovery chamber 30 to the outside. In other words, the separation mechanism 50 is a mechanism capable of moving the winding member 42 in a direction that pulls it out of the recovery chamber 30, and can move the winding member 42 from its top end side to its base end side using this separation mechanism 50. As an example of such a mechanism, in this embodiment, a cylinder mechanism 54 is provided outside the recovery chamber 30. The winding member 42 can be moved by the extension and retraction action of this cylinder mechanism 54. Figure 11 The position of the roll-up CNT shown (roll-up position) and Figure 14 The CNT winding R is shown to move between positions (pull-out positions) where it is separated from the winding member 42. That is, the winding member 42 can move in a manner that allows it to approach or move away from the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30.

[0112] According to the above-described structure, after the CNT winding body R is formed using the winding member 42 in the winding position, the winding member 42 is retracted to... Figure 14 The CNT winding R is positioned as shown in the pull-out position, thereby contacting the inner surface of the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30. Then, with the CNT winding R in contact with the inner surface of the side portion 30b, the take-up member 42 is further retracted, thereby removing the inner circumferential surface of the CNT winding R from the take-up member 42, and the CNT winding R detaches from the take-up member 42. Thus, the CNT winding R and the take-up member 42 are separated. Afterwards, the take-up member 42 is advanced from the pull-out position to the take-up position to begin taking up the CNTs for forming the next CNT winding R.

[0113] Thus, in the recycling device 3 of the second embodiment, the CNT winding body R can also be separated from the winding member 42 by the separation mechanism 50. Therefore, similar to the first embodiment, when mass-producing CNTs, the production volume of CNT winding bodies R that can be produced in one cycle can be increased compared to the past, and the manufacturing time until the desired amount of carbon nanotubes is produced can be shortened.

[0114] Furthermore, the recycling device 3, which separates the CNT winding body R by moving the winding member 42 in the direction of being pulled out from the recycling chamber 30 as in the second embodiment, can shorten the manufacturing time until the desired amount of carbon nanotubes is produced, compared to the case where the CNT winding body R is separated by using the push-out member 51 as in the first embodiment.

[0115] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the separating member is the ejector member 51. In the second embodiment, since the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30 contacts the CNT winding body R, the separating member disposed on the base end side of the take-up member 42 in the second embodiment is the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30. Additionally, a plate-shaped member (not shown) coated with Teflon may be provided on the inner surface of the side portion 30b of the recovery chamber 30, for example. With such a plate-shaped member, when the take-up member 42 is retracted from the take-up position to the pull-out position to separate the CNT winding body R, the CNTs are less likely to adhere to the inner surface of the side portion 30b. In this case, the separating member disposed on the base end side of the take-up member 42 is a plate-shaped member coated with Teflon.

[0116] The separation process of the CNT winding R in this embodiment is described above, but from the viewpoint of efficiently recycling CNTs, such as Figure 12 and Figure 13 As shown, a compression member 44 is preferably provided in the recycling device 3. The compression member 44 is a member used to compress the CNT winding R to increase the density of the CNT winding R, and is made of, for example, stainless steel. The compression member 44 has a shape (e.g., cylindrical) extending along the rotation axis direction (X direction) of the winding member 42, such as... Figure 13 As shown, when viewed from the direction of the rotation axis (X direction) of the winding member 42, the compression member 44 is positioned to the side of the winding member 42.

[0117] With the compression member 44 provided, during the formation process of the CNT winding body R, as the outer diameter of the CNT winding body R increases with the winding of the CNTs, the outer peripheral surface of the CNT winding body R comes into contact with the outer peripheral surface of the compression member 44. Then, when the CNTs are further wound in this state, the outer peripheral surface of the CNT winding body R remains in contact with the compression member 44, and the outer diameter of the CNT winding body R is maintained, preventing further increase. On the other hand, even in this state, CNTs can continue to be supplied to the winding member 42, and the CNTs can continue to be wound. Therefore, at the contact portion between the CNT winding body R and the compression member 44, a force is generated that presses the CNTs from the outer peripheral surface of the CNT winding body R towards the center, compressing the CNT winding body R. By compressing the CNT winding body R in this way, the density of the CNT winding body R increases, increasing the amount of CNTs recovered per winding of the CNT winding body R. In addition, by compressing the CNT winding body R, the volume of the recycling chamber 30 can be reduced, thereby improving space productivity through space saving.

[0118] Alternatively, it is preferable that the compression member 44 is configured to be supported, for example, by a bearing, so that it rotates when in contact with the CNT winding body R. With such a structure, the compression member 44 will rotate when the CNT winding body R contacts the compression member 44, thus reducing the rotational resistance of the CNT winding body R, and making it easier to form the CNT winding body R into a roll.

[0119] Furthermore, preferably, similar to the winding member 42, the compression member 44 is configured to move in a direction that allows it to be pulled out of the recovery chamber 30. This allows the CNTs attached to the compression member 44 to detach from it, thereby increasing the amount of CNTs recovered.

[0120] (Third Implementation)

[0121] In the second embodiment described above, a structural example was described in which the compression member 44 rotates passively by contacting the CNT winding body R. However, in the third embodiment, a structural example was described in which the compression member 44 rotates regardless of whether there is contact with the CNT winding body R. Hereinafter, refer to... Figures 15-17 The third implementation method is described below.

[0122] Figure 15 This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic structure of the separation mechanism 50 in the third embodiment. Figure 16 Viewed from above Figure 15 A diagram of the periphery of the winding mechanism 40. Figure 17 From Figure 15 The direction of arrow C is observed in the diagram.

[0123] like Figure 15As shown, the top surface 30e of the recovery chamber 30, similar to the second embodiment, has an opening 31 communicating with the lower end of the reaction tube 21 of the generating device 2. The CNTs generated in the reaction tube 21 are conveyed into the recovery chamber 30 through the opening 31. In the third embodiment, similar to the second embodiment, the winding member 42 is pulled outward from the recovery chamber 30, causing the CNT winding body R to move from the base end side to the top end side of the winding member 42, thereby separating the CNT winding body R. Therefore, similar to the recovery device 3 in the second embodiment, when mass-producing CNTs, the manufacturing time until the desired amount of carbon nanotubes is produced can be shortened compared to the recovery device 3 using the ejection member 51 as in the first embodiment.

[0124] like Figure 16 As shown, in this embodiment, the compression member 44 is connected to a rotating body 45 in the same manner as the winding member 42. The rotation axes of the rotating body 45 and the rotating body 41 are oriented towards an axis L extending in the vertical direction. Figure 1 The vertical direction is horizontal. Furthermore, the rotating body 45 and rotating body 41 are connected via multiple gears 46, configured such that when the rotating body 41 is rotated by the drive unit 43, the rotating body 45 and rotating body 41 rotate in opposite directions. That is, the compression member 44 and the winding member 42 are configured to rotate in opposite directions.

[0125] Specifically, as viewed from the inside of the recovery chamber 30, the direction of the rotation axis (X direction) of the rotating body 41 is... Figure 17 As shown, preferably, the compression member 44 rotates clockwise and the winding member 42 rotates counterclockwise. This allows the CNTs to be wound up without reversing the flow of CNTs downwards from the opening 31. Therefore, it suppresses the retention of CNTs that may occur between the opening 31 and the winding member 42, thereby enabling longer-term continuous winding of CNTs. Furthermore, the rotating body 45 is made of, for example, stainless steel, and the gear 46 is made of, for example, carbon steel.

[0126] According to the recycling device 3 with the structure of the compression member 44 rotating as described above, compared with the case where the compression member 44 rotates passively as in the second embodiment, the rotational resistance of the CNT winding body R can be further reduced, and the CNT winding body R can be easily formed into a roll.

[0127] In addition, in this embodiment, the driving force of the drive unit 43 is transmitted to the rotating body 45 connected to the compression member 44 by using multiple gears 46, but other drive units (not shown) dedicated to the rotating body 45 may also be provided.

[0128] The structures of the recovery device 3 described in the first to third embodiments above can be combined within a range that does not hinder the function of separating the winding member 42 and the CNT winding body R. For example, in the first to third embodiments, a recovery device 3 is described in which either the winding member 42 or the separating member is moved in such a way that the top end of the winding member 42 and the separating member are brought relatively close together. However, it is also possible to move both the winding member 42 and the separating member so that the top end of the winding member 42 and the separating member are brought relatively close together. For example, in the first embodiment, when separating the CNT winding body R, the push-out member 51, which is an example of the separating member, is moved from the base end side of the winding member 42 toward the top end side. At this time, as in the second and third embodiments, the winding member 42 can also be moved in the direction of being pulled out from the recovery chamber 30. If the structure moves both the winding member 42 and the separating member in this way, the separation of the CNT winding body R can be performed in a shorter time.

[0129] Alternatively, for example in the first embodiment, the compression member 44 of the second and third embodiments may be used instead of the compression member 70. Alternatively, for example in the second and third embodiments, the guide member 70 of the first embodiment may be used instead of the compression member 44.

[0130] Next, an example of the arrangement of each winding member 42 in the case where multiple winding members 42 are composed of cylindrical or cylindrical rollers will be described. Furthermore, the separation mechanism 50 of the first to third embodiments described above can also be applied to the winding member 42 described below. In the following examples, a separation mechanism 50 of the type described in the second embodiment, which pulls out the winding member 42, is used; however, illustrations of the separation mechanism 50 are omitted in the accompanying drawings referred to in the following description.

[0131] (Configuration Example 1)

[0132] First, let's explain configuration example 1. Figure 18 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration example 1 of the winding components 42a and 42b. Figure 19 It is a schematic representation of viewing from above. Figure 18 The diagram shows the configuration of the winding components 42a, 42b and the rotating bodies 41a, 41b in the recovery chamber 30. The diagram of the CNT winding body R is omitted in this figure.

[0133] like Figure 18 and Figure 19As shown, in this configuration example, two winding members 42a and 42b are provided below the opening 31 of the recovery chamber 30. In addition, two rotating bodies 41a and 41b corresponding to the winding members 42a and 42b are provided, with the base end of the first winding member 42a mounted on the first rotating body 41a and the base end of the second winding member 42b mounted on the second rotating body 41b.

[0134] The rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a and the rotation axis D2 of the second rotating body 41b are respectively oriented in a direction perpendicular to the center line E of the opening 31 and in a horizontal direction (in Figure 18 In the example, it faces the X direction. "The centerline E of the opening" is a straight line passing through the center of the opening 31 and extending in a direction perpendicular to the opening surface (in...). Figure 18 In the example, it is a vertical line. The center of the opening 31 is the centroid of the shape of the opening 31. Specifically, for example, in the shape of the opening 31 as... Figure 19 When the double-dotted line indicates a circle, the center of the circle is the center of the opening 31. When the shape of the opening 31 is quadrilateral, the intersection of the diagonals is the center of the opening 31.

[0135] Furthermore, in the CNT manufacturing apparatus 1 illustrated in this specification, the center line E of the opening 31 and Figure 1 The axes L shown are located on the same straight line.

[0136] The first winding member 42a rotates about the rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a, and the second winding member 42b rotates about the rotation axis D2 of the second rotating body 41b. The first rotating body 41a and the second rotating body 41b are arranged at intervals, as shown below. Figure 18 As shown, the interval is the length by which the CNT winding R wound on the first winding member 42a and another CNT winding R wound on the second winding member 42b can come into contact with each other.

[0137] By arranging the rotating bodies 41a and 41b and the winding members 42a and 42b at such intervals, one of the two CNT windings R is compressed against the other. This limits the outer diameter of each of the two CNT windings R, allowing for longer continuous winding of CNTs. Consequently, the amount of CNTs recovered in a single winding of CNT R can be increased.

[0138] In addition, Figure 18In the example shown, the first take-up member 42a and the second take-up member 42b are arranged in a left-right arrangement, but they can also be arranged in a top-bottom arrangement, or in an oblique arrangement such as upper left and lower right or lower left and upper right. Even with such an arrangement, if the take-up members 42a and 42b are arranged such that the CNT wound bodies R wound by each take-up member 42a and 42b are in contact with each other, it is possible to achieve a state in which the two CNT wound bodies R are compressed against each other.

[0139] Furthermore, when viewed from the direction of the rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a, the lateral direction (in) Figure 18 In the example where the Y direction is defined as the width direction of the recovery chamber 30, the positions of the rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a and the rotation axis D2 of the second rotating body 41b in the width direction are preferably different. In other words, the positions of the rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a and the rotation axis D2 of the second rotating body 41b are preferably not consistent in the width direction. As a result, the CNTs after passing through the opening 31 can easily come into contact with either of the two winding members 42a and 42b, which can reduce the amount of unwound CNTs.

[0140] Furthermore, the width direction of the aforementioned recovery chamber 30 can also be described as the direction perpendicular to the center line E of the opening 31 when viewed from the rotation axis D1 direction of the first rotating body 41a.

[0141] like Figure 18 As shown, the center line E of the opening 31 is preferably located between the rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a and the rotation axis D2 of the second rotating body 41b. By configuring the center line E of the opening 31 to be sandwiched between the rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a and the rotation axis D2 of the second rotating body 41b, the likelihood of the CNT contacting either of the two winding members 42a and 42b can be increased, and the amount of unwound CNTs can be further reduced.

[0142] Furthermore, in the configuration example 1 of the winding members 42a and 42b described above, only two winding members 42 are provided, but three or more can also be provided. Even in this case, if the spacing between each winding member (in other words, the spacing between each rotating body) is set to an appropriate spacing, the effect of the CNT winding body being compressed against each other as described above can be obtained. From the viewpoint of improving this effect, the spacing d between adjacent winding members is... r Preferably, the width direction of the opening 31 (in) Figure 18 In the example, the length (width W) in the Y direction is 0.1 to 0.9 times.

[0143] (Configuration Example 2)

[0144] Next, we will describe a configuration example 2 of the winding member 42. In the following description, descriptions that are the same as those in configuration example 1 will sometimes be omitted.

[0145] Figure 20 This is a diagram illustrating the configuration example 2 of the winding members 42a to 42d. Figure 21 It is a schematic representation of viewing from above. Figure 20 A diagram showing the configuration of the winding components 42a, 42b and the rotating bodies 41a, 41b in the recovery chamber 30. Figure 22 It is a schematic representation of viewing from below. Figure 21 A diagram showing the configuration of the winding components 42c, 42d and the rotating bodies 41c, 41d during the recovery chamber.

[0146] like Figures 20-22 As shown, in this configuration example, four rotating bodies 41a to 41d and four take-up members 42a to 42d are provided. The base end of the first take-up member 42a is mounted to the first rotating body 41a, and the base end of the second take-up member 42b is mounted to the second rotating body 41b. Furthermore, the base end of the third take-up member 42c is mounted to the third rotating body 41c, and the base end of the fourth take-up member 42d is mounted to the fourth rotating body 41d.

[0147] The rotation axes D1 of the first rotating body 41a, D2 of the second rotating body 41b, D3 of the third rotating body 41c, and D4 of the fourth rotating body 41d are all oriented horizontally. Furthermore, the rotation axes D1 of the first rotating body 41a and D2 of the second rotating body 41b are arranged such that the center line E of the opening 31 is sandwiched between them, and the rotation axes D3 of the third rotating body 41c and D4 of the fourth rotating body 41d also sandwich the center line E of the opening 31 between them.

[0148] Furthermore, the third rotating body 41c is located below the first rotating body 41a, and the third winding member 42c is located below the first winding member 42a. The position of the rotation axis D3 of the third rotating body 41c in the width direction (Y direction) coincides with the position of the rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a in the width direction (Y direction). Similarly, the fourth rotating body 41d is located below the second rotating body 41b, and the fourth winding member 42d is located below the second winding member 42b. The position of the rotation axis D4 of the fourth rotating body 41d in the width direction (Y direction) coincides with the position of the rotation axis D2 of the second rotating body 41b in the width direction (Y direction).

[0149] In other words, the first winding member 42a is located between the wall surface 30e with the opening 31 of the recovery chamber 30 and the third winding member 42c, and the second winding member 42b is located between the wall surface 30e and the fourth winding member 42d.

[0150] The rotation directions of the first winding member 42a and the third winding member 42c are preferably opposite. Specifically, it is preferable that, when viewed from the inside of the recovery chamber 30 along the rotation axis D1 direction (X direction) of the first rotating body 41a, the first winding member 42a rotates clockwise and the third winding member 42c rotates counterclockwise. This allows CNTs to be wound up without reversing the flow of CNTs after passing through the opening 31. For the same reason, it is preferable that, when viewed from the inside of the recovery chamber 30 along the rotation axis D1 direction (X direction) of the second rotating body 41b, the second winding member 42b rotates counterclockwise and the fourth winding member 42d rotates clockwise.

[0151] And, as Figure 20 As shown, none of the winding members 42a to 42d are located in the exit region 32 of the opening 31. Figure 20 The oblique section region). The exit region 32 is defined as the region extending along the center line E of the opening 31 from the opening 31 toward the inner side of the recovery chamber 30. In this exit region 32, in the direction perpendicular to the center line E of the opening 31 when viewed from the rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a (in Figure 20 In the example, when the length in the Y direction is set as the width of the exit region 32, this width is the same as the length (width W) of the opening 31 in that direction. In other words, the cross-sectional area of ​​the exit region 32, which is cut perpendicularly to the center line E, and the opening area of ​​the opening 31 are equal to each other.

[0152] Here, the flow of carrier gas and the state of CNTs after passing through opening 31 are explained. Figure 23 This is a diagram used for this explanation, with the carrier gas indicated by dashed arrows. First, the carrier gas flowing into the recovery chamber 30 from the opening 31 mainly flows downwards from the opening 31.

[0153] In the above-mentioned Figure 18 In the configuration example 1 shown, where multiple winding members 42a and 42b are arranged in the width direction below the opening 31, a CNT winding body R is formed in each winding member 42a and 42b. This narrows the flow path of the carrier gas below the opening 31. Therefore, as the CNTs based on the winding members 42a and 42b are wound, the carrier gas is less likely to flow downwards between the opening 31 and the winding members 42a and 42b, and tends to flow in a direction parallel to the XY plane.

[0154] At this time, depending on the flow rate of the carrier gas, the area of ​​the opening 31, and the CNT generation conditions, the following situation exists: Under the influence of the carrier gas flowing in the XY plane, the CNTs after passing through the opening 31 also flow in the XY plane, making it difficult for the CNTs to contact the winding members 42a and 42b. Therefore, when the winding members 42a and 42b... Figure 18 In that configuration, to avoid the occurrence of unwound CNTs, the CNT winding body R is retracted after a certain period of CNT winding.

[0155] On the other hand, such as Figure 23 As shown in Configuration Example 2, when the winding members 42a to 42d are not arranged in the area below the opening 31, the flow of carrier gas from the opening 31 downwards is not obstructed, and therefore the flow direction of the carrier gas is easily stabilized.

[0156] Furthermore, since the carrier gas discharged from the opening 31 flows into the recovery chamber 30, which is a larger space than the flow path, the carrier gas is released into the recovery chamber 30 in a radial diffusion manner from the opening 31. Therefore, the carrier gas discharged from the opening 31 flows not only downwards from the opening 31 but also in an inclined direction. As a result, the CNTs, which are formed in a ribbon shape, are easily discharged from the opening 31 in an inclined direction due to the influence of the carrier gas flowing in the inclined direction.

[0157] For example, the CNTs after passing through the opening 31 move in a manner that swings left and right in the width direction (Y direction) of the recovery chamber 30. Therefore, during the generation of CNTs, there will be states where CNTs are discharged to the left and downwards in the opening 31, and states where they are discharged to the right and downwards in the opening 31.

[0158] In configuration example 2, no winding members 42a to 42d are provided in the outlet region 32 of the opening 31. However, when the CNT is discharged from the opening 31 in the inclined direction as described above, the CNT will come into contact with any of the winding members 42a to 42d. Therefore, as Figure 24 As shown, it can roll up CNTs.

[0159] In addition, such as Figure 20 As shown, when the take-up members 42a to 42d are arranged in the exit region 32 of the opening 31, the distance d in the width direction (Y direction) between the first take-up member 42a and the periphery of the opening 31 is preferably 0.15 to 0.65 times the width W of the opening 31. This allows the CNT passing through the opening 31 to easily contact the first take-up member 42a. Furthermore, it is preferable that the distance between the second take-up member 42b and the periphery of the opening 31 is also the same.

[0160] As explained above, according to the configuration example 2 of the winding members 42a to 42d, CNT winding based on the winding members 42a to 42d can be performed without obstructing the flow of carrier gas in the outlet region 32 of the opening 31. Therefore, compared to configuration example 1, the frequency of CNT winding R recovery can be reduced, and CNT winding can be performed continuously for a longer period. This also increases the amount of CNTs recovered per recovery of the CNT winding R.

[0161] In addition, such as Figure 24 As shown, sometimes fine CNTs are attached to the periphery of the opening 31. By further attaching and accumulating other fine CNTs at the site where the CNTs are attached, a CNT film is sometimes formed. If such a CNT film grows and expands, there is a possibility that carrier gas may be ejected from the gaps in the CNT film, causing the CNTs to scatter in a dust-like manner. Sometimes the dust-like scattered CNTs do not come into contact with the winding members 42a to 42d, and thus sometimes the scattered CNTs cannot be recovered.

[0162] On the other hand, the winding members 42a to 42d are disposed in the exit side region 32 of the opening 31. Figure 20 When the CNT film expands at the periphery of the opening 31, it can be wound up using the first winding member 42a or the second winding member 42b. That is, in the arrangement example 2 of winding members 42a to 42d, there is also the advantage of being able to easily peel the CNT film from the periphery of the opening 31.

[0163] Furthermore, the third take-up member 42c is preferably positioned at a location where the CNT wound body R taken by the first take-up member 42a and the CNT wound body R taken by the third take-up member 42c can contact each other. This allows the two CNT wound bodies R to be in a state of mutual compression, thus limiting the outer diameter of the CNT wound body R formed by the first take-up member 42a.

[0164] Therefore, if the third take-up member 42c is positioned to compress the CNT winding body R of the first take-up member 42a to prevent the outer edge of the CNT winding body R from entering the exit region 32 of the opening 31, the flow of carrier gas can be maintained in the exit region 32 of the opening 31 for a longer period of time. As a result, CNT winding can be performed continuously for a longer period of time.

[0165] For the same reason, the fourth take-up member 42d is preferably positioned at a location where the CNT wound body R taken by the second take-up member 42b and the CNT wound body R taken by the fourth take-up member 42d can contact each other.

[0166] Furthermore, from the viewpoint of not obstructing the flow of carrier gas in the outlet region 32 of the opening 31, it is not necessary to provide a third winding member 42c and a fourth winding member 42d. However, by providing the winding members 42c and 42d, the contact opportunity between the CNTs after passing through the opening 31 and the winding members can be increased, thereby increasing the amount of CNTs recovered.

[0167] In addition, such as Figure 25 and Figure 26 As shown, CNT manufacturing apparatus 1 ( Figure 1 The reaction tube 21 may also be located on the side portion 30c instead of the top portion 30e of the recovery chamber 30. In this case, the outlet region 32 of the opening 31 is formed on the side of the opening 31. Furthermore, in Figure 25 and Figure 26 In the example shown, each rotation axis D1 to D4 is also oriented in a direction perpendicular to the center line E of the opening 31 and is horizontal.

[0168] Even when the reaction tube 21 is connected horizontally relative to the recovery chamber 30, because CNTs are lightweight, the CNTs discharged from the opening 31 will also diffuse radially into the recovery chamber 30 from the opening 31. Therefore, even when the winding member is positioned above the exit region 32, the winding member can be used to wind up the CNTs.

[0169] Therefore, even if the reaction tube 21 is connected horizontally to the recovery chamber 30 but not vertically, the same advantageous effects as in configuration examples 1 to 3 can be obtained by applying the winding member configuration described in configuration examples 1 to 2 or configuration example 3 below.

[0170] (Configuration Example 3)

[0171] Next, we will describe a configuration example 3 of the winding member 42. In the following description, descriptions that are the same as those in configuration example 1 or configuration example 2 will sometimes be omitted.

[0172] like Figure 27 As shown, in configuration example 3, the positions of the third winding member 42c and the fourth winding member 42d are different from those in configuration example 2, and the interval between the third winding member 42c and the fourth winding member 42d is greater than the interval between the first winding member 42a and the second winding member 42b.

[0173] In other words, the rotation axis D1 of the first rotating body 41a is located between the center line E of the opening 31 and the rotation axis D3 of the third rotating body 41c, and the rotation axis D2 of the second rotating body 41b is located between the center line E of the opening 31 and the rotation axis D4 of the fourth rotating body 41d. The reason for this preferred configuration of the winding members 42a to 42d is as follows.

[0174] Depending on the CNT generation conditions, the density of CNTs discharged from the opening 31 may decrease. In this case, due to the turbulence of the atmosphere caused by the rotation of the first winding member 42a and the second winding member 42b, the CNTs may sometimes float. Some of these floating CNTs may fall from the outside of the width direction of the winding members 42a and 42b without contacting them.

[0175] On the other hand, such as Figure 27 Therefore, if the third winding member 42c is positioned outside the width direction of the first winding member 42a and the fourth winding member 42d is positioned outside the width direction of the second winding member 42b, then the winding members 42c and 42d can be used to recover floating CNTs that were not completely recovered by the winding members 42a and 42b. Furthermore, from the viewpoint of improving the recovery effect of floating CNTs, the interval d between the first winding member 42a and the second winding member 42b... r1 The interval d between the third winding member 42c and the fourth winding member 42d r2 Preferred to satisfy d r1 :d r2 =1:1.1~3.0.

[0176] The above describes configuration examples 1 to 3 when multiple winding members 42 composed of rollers are provided.

[0177] Furthermore, in any configuration example, not all rotating bodies need to function as drive shafts. For example, when the first rotating body 41a is the drive shaft and the third rotating body 41c is the driven shaft, the rotation of the third rotating body 41c begins when the CNT winding body R of the first take-up member 42a contacts the third take-up member 42c.

[0178] However, even if the CNT that has passed through the opening 31 comes into contact with the third take-up member 42c before the third rotating body 41c begins to rotate, the CNT is not taken up by the third take-up member 42c. In addition, since the CNT winding body R has low stiffness, even if the third rotating body 41c starts to rotate due to the contact between the CNT winding body R of the first take-up member 42a and the third take-up member 42c, the shape of the CNT winding body R of the first take-up member 42a may be deformed due to rotational resistance.

[0179] Therefore, from the viewpoint of reducing the amount of unwound CNTs and suppressing shape deformation of the CNT winding body R, all of the plurality of rotating bodies 41 are preferably drive shafts. The rotational speed of the rotating bodies 41 that serve as drive shafts is set, for example, from 0.01 rpm to 500 rpm. In addition, the rotational speeds of adjacent rotating bodies 41 are preferably set in the range of a speed ratio of 0.9 to 1.1, and more preferably, they are set to the same speed.

[0180] As described above, the separation mechanism 50 of the first embodiment to the third embodiment can also be applied in configuration examples 1 to 3. When the separation mechanism 50 of the first embodiment is applied, for example, it is possible to use... Figure 2 The push-out member 51, the cover member 60, and the guide member 70 are shown. In this case, there may be one push-out member 51, one cover member 60, and one guide member 70, or there may be multiple members provided at the locations where the rollers serving as the take-up member 42 are installed.

[0181] For example, in Figure 24 The device is equipped with four take-up members 42a to 42d, but the CNT windings of the four take-up members 42a to 42d can be separated together by the pushing action of a single push-out member (not shown). Alternatively, four small push-out members can be used, and these push-out members can be installed at the same positions as the four take-up members 42a to 42d, so that the CNT windings of one take-up member can be separated by the pushing action of the single push-out member.

[0182] Furthermore, in the above-described configuration examples 1 to 3, the winding member 42 is composed of a roller, but for example, it could also be, as... Figure 3 As shown, a structure in which multiple winding members 42 are mounted relative to a single rotating body 41 is employed.

[0183] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the examples described. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the technical concept described in the claims, and such modifications or alterations are naturally also considered to fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

[0184] For example, the structural elements of the above embodiments can be arbitrarily combined. Based on this arbitrary combination, the functions and effects of each structural element related to the combination can be obtained, and according to the description in this specification, other functions and effects that are self-evident to those skilled in the art can be obtained.

[0185] Furthermore, the effects described in this specification are illustrative or exemplary only and are not limiting. That is to say, based on the description in this specification, the technology of the present invention can include the above-described effects and achieve other effects that are self-evident to those skilled in the art, or the technology of the present invention can achieve other effects that are self-evident to those skilled in the art to replace the above-described effects.

[0186] Industrial availability

[0187] This invention can be applied to carbon nanotube recycling and manufacturing equipment.

[0188] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0189] 1. CNT manufacturing apparatus (carbon nanotube manufacturing apparatus); 2. CNT generation apparatus (carbon nanotube generation apparatus); 3. CNT recycling apparatus (carbon nanotube recycling apparatus); 21. Reaction tube; 22. Heater; 23. Raw material supply port; 30. Recycling chamber; 30a. Side part; 30b. Side part; 30c. Side part; 30d. Side part; 30e. Top part; 30f. Bottom part; 31. Opening part; 32. Outlet area of ​​the opening part; 40. Winding mechanism; 41. Rotating body; 41a. First rotating body; 41b. Second rotating body; 41c. Third rotating body; 41d. Fourth rotating body; 42. Winding member; 42a. First winding member; 42b. Second winding member; 42c, Third winding member; 42d, Fourth winding member; 43, Drive unit; 44, Compression member; 45, Rotating body; 46, Gear; 50, Separation mechanism; 51, Ejection member; 51a, Opening; 52, Drive rod; 53, Drive unit; 54, Cylinder mechanism; 60, Covering member; 70, Guide member; 71, Plate member; 72, Plate member; 73, Flat plate; 74, Fixing part; D1, Rotation axis of the first rotating body; D2, Rotation axis of the second rotating body; D3, Rotation axis of the third rotating body; D4, Rotation axis of the fourth rotating body; E, Center line of the opening; L, Axis of the reaction tube; R, CNT winding (carbon nanotube winding); W, Width of the opening.

Claims

1. A carbon nanotube recycling device for recycling carbon nanotubes generated by a carbon nanotube generating device, wherein, This carbon nanotube recycling device has the following features: The recovery chamber has an opening that communicates with the carbon nanotube generating device; A winding member, disposed in the recycling chamber, winds up the carbon nanotubes from the carbon nanotube generating device after passing through the opening to form a carbon nanotube winding; as well as A separation mechanism that moves the carbon nanotube winding from the base end side toward the top end side of the winding member, thereby separating the carbon nanotube winding from the winding member. The recovery chamber has a volume capable of accommodating multiple carbon nanotube windings separated from the winding member. The carbon nanotube recycling device is configured to recover multiple carbon nanotube coils stored in the recycling chamber.

2. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 1, wherein... The carbon nanotube recycling device has a separation member disposed on the base end side of the winding member and in contact with the carbon nanotube winding. The separation mechanism is a mechanism that moves one or both of the winding member and the separation member by bringing the tip of the winding member and the separation member relatively close together.

3. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 2, wherein, The separation mechanism is a mechanism that moves the winding member in the direction of being pulled out of the recovery chamber.

4. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 2, wherein, The separation component is an ejection component disposed within the recovery chamber. The separation mechanism is a mechanism that moves the ejector member from the base end side of the winding member toward the top end side to eject the carbon nanotube winding from the top end of the winding member, thereby separating the carbon nanotube winding.

5. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 4, wherein, The ejection member is formed in such a way that it surrounds the outer periphery of the winding member.

6. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 1, wherein, The carbon nanotube recycling device has a guiding member that guides the carbon nanotubes through the opening toward the winding member.

7. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 1, wherein, This carbon nanotube recycling device has the following features: A rotating body, having the base end of the winding member mounted thereon; and A compression member that contacts the carbon nanotube winding wound onto the winding member. The compression member extends along the rotation axis of the rotating body, and when viewed from the rotation axis of the rotating body, the compression member is positioned to the side of the winding member.

8. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 7, wherein, The compression member is configured to rotate in a direction opposite to the rotation direction of the rotating body.

9. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 1, wherein, The carbon nanotube recycling device has a rotating body on which the base end of the winding member is mounted. The winding member is supported on the rotating body in the form of a cantilever beam.

10. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 1, wherein, The carbon nanotube recycling device is equipped with multiple winding components. The carbon nanotube recycling device has a first rotating body with a base end fitted with a first winding member and a second rotating body with a base end fitted with a second winding member. The rotation axis of the first rotating body and the rotation axis of the second rotating body are perpendicular to the center line of the opening and are horizontal.

11. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 10, wherein, When viewed from the direction of the rotation axis of the first rotating body, the positions of the rotation axis of the first rotating body and the rotation axis of the second rotating body are different in the direction perpendicular to the center line of the opening.

12. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 11, wherein, The centerline of the opening is located between the rotation axis of the first rotating body and the rotation axis of the second rotating body.

13. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 12, wherein, When the area extending from the centerline of the opening toward the inside of the recovery chamber is defined as the outlet region of the opening, The width of the exit region and the width of the opening are the same length when viewed from the rotation axis direction of the first rotating body. None of the aforementioned winding members are located in the exit side region.

14. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 11, wherein, The carbon nanotube recycling device has a third rotating body with a base end fitted with a third winding member and a fourth rotating body with a base end fitted with a fourth winding member. The rotation axis of the third rotating body and the rotation axis of the fourth rotating body are perpendicular to the center line of the opening and are horizontal. The first take-up member is disposed between the wall surface of the recovery chamber having the opening and the third take-up member. The second take-up member is disposed between the wall surface and the fourth take-up member.

15. The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 14, wherein, The centerline of the opening is located between the rotation axis of the first rotating body and the rotation axis of the second rotating body. The centerline of the opening is located between the rotation axis of the third rotating body and the rotation axis of the fourth rotating body. The interval between the third take-up member and the fourth take-up member is greater than the interval between the first take-up member and the second take-up member.

16. An apparatus for manufacturing carbon nanotubes, wherein, The apparatus for manufacturing carbon nanotubes has the following features: A generating device that generates carbon nanotubes; as well as The carbon nanotube recycling device according to claim 1.

17. A method for recycling carbon nanotubes, wherein the carbon nanotube recycling apparatus of claim 1 is used, wherein, The method for recycling carbon nanotubes has the following characteristics: A forming process in which the winding member is used to wind up the carbon nanotubes that have passed through the opening of the carbon nanotube recycling device to form a carbon nanotube winding. as well as In the separation process, the carbon nanotube winding is moved from the base end side to the top end side of the winding member to separate the carbon nanotube winding from the winding member. After the formation and separation processes are repeated to form a plurality of carbon nanotube windings, the plurality of carbon nanotube windings stored together in the recycling chamber of the carbon nanotube recycling device are recycled together.

18. The method for recycling carbon nanotubes according to claim 17, wherein, In the separation process, the carbon nanotube winding is separated from the winding member by moving the winding member in a direction that pulls it out of the recycling chamber.

19. The method for recycling carbon nanotubes according to claim 17, wherein, In the separation process, the carbon nanotube winding is separated from the winding member by pushing it from the base end side toward the top end side.

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