A non-catalytic process for the production of carbon nanotubes includes supplying
an electric current to a carbon anode and a carbon cathode which have been securely
positioned in the open atmosphere with a gap between them. The electric current
creates an electric arc between the carbon anode and the carbon cathode, which
causes carbon to be vaporized from the carbon anode and a carbonaceous residue
to be deposited on the carbon cathode. Inert gas is pumped into the gap to flush
out oxygen, thereby preventing interference with the vaporization of carbon from
the anode and preventing oxidation of the carbonaceous residue being deposited
on the cathode. The anode and cathode are cooled while electric current is being
supplied thereto. When the supply of electric current is terminated, the carbonaceous
residue is removed from the cathode and is purified to yield carbon nanotubes.