Methods and processes for preparing supported metal catalysts are
provided, where the supported metal catalysts can be used for the bulk
synthesis of carbon nanotubes. The salts of the metal and the support are
selected such that they are soluble in the same solvent. The catalyst can
be prepared from the liquid phase through joint precipitation of the
metal and the support material. The methods can be used to increase the
metal load on the support. Use of the catalysts increases the yield of
the carbon nanotubes.