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Carbon Nanotube Technology and Applications

Single_vs_Multi-walled_CNT
(Single vs Multi-walled CNT, nanoScience Instruments)

- Overview 

Carbon nanotube (CNT) technology uses cylindrical carbon molecules (rolled graphene) with extraordinary strength, conductivity, and thermal properties for applications in lighter, stronger composites, advanced electronics, better batteries, water filtration, and medicine (drug delivery). 

These nanoscale materials reinforce structural components, enhance energy storage, create sensors, and even serve in biomedical fields, promising revolution in aerospace, automotive, energy, and healthcare sectors. 

A. Key Properties of Carbon Nanotubes:

  • Strength: 100 times stronger than steel but much lighter.
  • Electrical Conductivity: Can conduct electricity better than copper.
  • Thermal Conductivity: Efficient heat conductors.
  • High Surface Area: Useful for filtration and catalysis.
  • Tunable Properties: Can be metallic or semiconducting depending on structure.


B. Potential Applications:
1. Materials & Composites:

  • Reinforcing polymers, metals, and ceramics for aerospace, automotive parts (tires, chassis), and sports equipment (rackets, bikes).
  • Wear-resistant coatings and lightweight structural components.


2. Electronics & Energy:

  • Batteries and supercapacitors for improved life and power.
  • Field-effect transistors, sensors, and transparent conductive films.
  • Electromagnetic shielding.


3. Biomedical:

  • Targeted drug delivery systems.
  • Biosensors and personalized medicine.


4. Environmental:

  • Water purification filters for removing salts, chemicals, and bacteria.
  • Catalyst supports for environmental remediation.


5. Other:

  • Space elevator tethers (proposed).
  • Conductive paper, inks, and advanced textiles.


C. How it Works: 

CNTs are integrated into materials, leveraging their incredible strength-to-weight ratio and conductivity, often replacing or complementing traditional materials like carbon fiber. 

Their nanoscale structure allows for precise manipulation to create materials with tailored properties for specific high-performance applications.

 

[More to come ...]

 

 

 

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