A method of producing a carbon nanotube product comprising a catalytic
particle and single-walled carbon nanotubes deposited thereon. The
catalytic particles preferably contain at least one metal from Group
VIII, including for example Co, Ni, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ir, and Pt, and at least
one metal from Group VIb including for example Mo, W and Cr. The
catalytic particle preferably further comprises a support material such
as silica. The carbon nanotube product is preferably formed by exposing
the catalytic particle to a carbon-containing gas at a temperature
sufficient to form the single-walled nanotubes as a primary portion of a
solid carbon product on the catalytic particles.