Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are microscopic tubes of rolled-up sheets of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagon pattern. This pattern allows the atoms to form a lattice structure that is incredibly strong–stronger than steel—while also being lightweight and flexible. In short, the lattice structure allows stress to be distributed evenly rather than on one spot, like most other materials. Depending on their intended use, CNTs can be single, double, or multi-walled. The different number of walls in the tube impart different properties; for instance, an increase in rigidity or strength. Additionally, its thermal conductivity, electrical conductivity, highly chemically stable material, and hollow tube make it very versatile. Currently, the nanotube industry is predicted to be worth $4.5 billion, with major applications in electronics & semiconductors, energy & storage, structural composites applications, chemical materials and polymers, and the medical field.
Semiconductors:
The carbon nanotube’s unique qualities make it ideal for expanding semiconductor performance. For instance, CNTs are more energy-efficient than their silicon based counterparts, and can be used to build new types of microprocessors. Although the production of CNT was time-consuming and costly, recent advances in the nanotube field have made it comparable to that of silicon chips—leading the pivotal move to building different integrated circuits.
Energy and Storage:
Their open structure and enriched chirality enable improvements in the properties of other elements when bonded with CNTs. More specifically, energy storage systems have been using carbon nanotubes to improve electrical conductivity and as electrode material in fuel cells. Furthermore, many have found success in CNTs used in batteries, supercapacitors, and other energy storage systems.
Chemical Materials:
In the chemical field, carbon nanotubes can be used to make biosensors. The high surface-to-volume ratio makes it possible to obtain ultra fast detection of biological species at low concentrations. There are a collection of different CNT-based sensors, two of which are CNT-based electrodes and CNT-field effect transmitters. These biosensors are recognized to be the building blocks for the next generation of ultra-sensitive biosensing systems.
Despite their variety of uses, some experts worry that constant exposure to these carbon materials may be bad for our health. There are concerns that overexposure to CNTs may lead to lung inflammation–a condition that has been linked to the development of lung fibrosis and cancer. Furthermore, it has been revealed that nanoparticles induce toxic effects like DNA damage and cell death.
References
Nanotechnologies: 6. What Are Potential Harmful Effects of Nanoparticles? https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/opinions_layman/en/nanotechnologies/l-2/6-health-effects-nanoparticles.htm#:~:text=Materials%20which%20by%20themselves%20are,lung%20inflammation%20and%20heart%20problems. Accessed 27 Aug. 2023.
Michael Berger. “Carbon Nanotubes – What They Are, How They Are Made, What They Are Used For.” Logo, 13 Apr. 2014, https://www.nanowerk.com/nanotechnology/introduction/introduction_to_nanotechnology_22.php.
Written by Guoqiang Ren Senior Engineer, Applied. “Carbon Nanotube | Properties & Uses.” Encyclopedia Britannica, 21 July 2023, https://www.britannica.com/science/carbon-nanotube.
“Researcher Warns of Health Risks with Carbon Nanotubes.” ScienceDaily, 19 Jan. 2011, https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/01/110118092134.htm.
“Five Innovations Made Possible With Carbon Nanotubes.” Northrop Grumman, https://www.northropgrumman.com/what-we-do/advanced-technology-and-innovation/five-innovations-made-possible-with-carbon-nanotubes. Accessed 27 Aug. 2023.
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