A large density of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) has been grown on the fibers of a carbon paper using a sulfonated silane intermediary to uniformly disperse (1:1) Ni-Co catalytic sites used in the decomposition of ethylene. The nanotubes were obtained at 800 degreesC by Ohmically heating the carbon paper support. The MWCNTs are typically up to 20 mum in length and between 30 and 50 nm in diameter. These tubes are easily opened at room temperature, while remaining firmly attached to the carbon paper. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.