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70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World...
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70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions

A special issue of Nanomaterials (ISSN 2079-4991). This special issue belongs to the section "2D and Carbon Nanomaterials".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 March 2023) | Viewed by 36765

Printed Edition Available!
A printed edition of this Special Issue is available here.

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Muralidharan Paramsothy

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Consultant, NanoWorld Innovations (NWI), 1 Jalan Mawar, Singapore 368931, Singapore
Interests: nanomaterials & nanotechnology; nanoscience for renewable energy; synthesis and applications of nanomaterials; nanoparticle- and/or nanofiber-based materials
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

70 years ago in 1952, Russian scientists LV Radushkevich and VM Lukyanovich published clear images showing multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) having 50 nm diameter [1]. Their paper was in Russian, published in then Zhurnal Fizicheskoi Khimii (now Russian Journal of Physical Chemistry A), at the height of the Cold War. Radushkevich and Lukyanovich should be credited for the discovery that carbon filaments could be hollow and have a nanometer-size diameter, that is to say for the discovery of CNTs [2].

Now, it has been 30 years since Dr. Sumio Iijima of NEC Corporation in Japan observed single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and enabled popularization of MWCNTs by publishing his work in Nature in 1991. Thousands of papers published every year on CNT and linked areas relate to Dr. Sumio Iijima’s earlier work. He was awarded the Benjamin Franklin Medal in Physics in 2002, “for the discovery and elucidation of the atomic structure and helical character of multi-wall and single-wall carbon nanotubes, which have had an enormous impact on the rapidly growing condensed matter and materials science field of nanoscale science and electronics.”

CNTs are recognized for ultrahigh strength and deformability, high thermal conductivity, ballistic electrical conductivity, selected biocompatibility, unusual optical properties, and high surface area. Graphene and nanohorns are other well-known nanoscale forms of carbon, but CNTs remain distinguished by virtue of their one-dimensional or 1D structure, which enables directional tailoring of exceptionally favorable characteristics (enabling desired anisotropic properties) when required in application.   

Current applications of CNT include:

(1) Durable battery electrodes;
(2) Optical/thermal nanodevices;
(3) Nanoscale reinforcement for strong and conductive hybrid nanocomposites;
(4) Ultrahigh performance CPUs for quantum computing;
(5) Anti-fouling eco-friendly coatings;
(6) High-efficiency recoverable and reusable catalysts and adsorbents;
(7) Nerve repair.

For real world sustainability, these applications are a subset of:

(A) Energy harvesting (1)/conversion (2)
(B) Ultra-strong multifunctional components (3)
(C) High performance and secure computing and data processing (4)
(D) Cost-saving green coatings (5)
(E) Systematic material recovery and reuse (6)
(F) Tissue regeneration (7)

Contributions are solicited in but not limited to the above applications, for this Special Issue commemorating 70 years of CNT research and application toward sustainability. 

[1] Radushkevich, L.V.; Lukyanovich, V.M. O strukture ugleroda obrazujucegosja pri termiceskom razlozenii okisi ugleroda na zeleznom kontakte. Zhurnal Fizicheskoi Khimii 1952, 26, 88-95. (Translated into Radushkevich, L.V.; Lukyanovich, V.M. About the structure of carbon formed by thermal decomposition of carbon monoxide on iron substrate. Russian Journal of Physical Chemistry A 1952, 26, 88-95.)
[2] Monthioux, M.; Kuznetsov, V.L.; Guest editorial: Who should be given the credit for the discovery of carbon nanotubes? Carbon 2006, 44, 1621-1623.

Dr. Muralidharan Paramsothy
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2900 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • nanotube
  • nanostructure
  • nanodevice
  • nanocomposite
  • chemical
  • physical
  • biological
  • thermal
  • optical
  • electrical
  • quantum
  • catalyst
  • energy
  • computing
  • multifunctional
  • green
  • nerve
  • sustainable

Published Papers (15 papers)

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Editorial

Jump to: Research, Review

7 pages, 232 KiB  
Editorial
70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real-World Solutions
by Muralidharan Paramsothy
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(24), 3162; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano13243162 - 18 Dec 2023
Viewed by 817
Abstract
Seventy years ago in 1952, Russian scientists LV Radushkevich and VM Lukyanovich published clear images showing multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with 50 nm diameters [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)

Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

14 pages, 3662 KiB  
Article
PMMA/SWCNT Composites with Very Low Electrical Percolation Threshold by Direct Incorporation and Masterbatch Dilution and Characterization of Electrical and Thermoelectrical Properties
by Ezgi Uçar, Mustafa Dogu, Elcin Demirhan and Beate Krause
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(8), 1431; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano13081431 - 21 Apr 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1386
Abstract
In the present study, Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) composites were prepared by melt mixing to achieve suitable SWCNT dispersion and distribution and low electrical resistivity, whereby the SWCNT direct incorporation method was compared with masterbatch dilution. An electrical percolation threshold of [...] Read more.
In the present study, Poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) composites were prepared by melt mixing to achieve suitable SWCNT dispersion and distribution and low electrical resistivity, whereby the SWCNT direct incorporation method was compared with masterbatch dilution. An electrical percolation threshold of 0.05–0.075 wt% was found, the lowest threshold value for melt-mixed PMMA/SWCNT composites reported so far. The influence of rotation speed and method of SWCNT incorporation into the PMMA matrix on the electrical properties and the SWCNT macro dispersion was investigated. It was found that increasing rotation speed improved macro dispersion and electrical conductivity. The results showed that electrically conductive composites with a low percolation threshold could be prepared by direct incorporation using high rotation speed. The masterbatch approach leads to higher resistivity values compared to the direct incorporation of SWCNTs. In addition, the thermal behavior and thermoelectric properties of PMMA/SWCNT composites were studied. The Seebeck coefficients vary from 35.8 µV/K to 53.4 µV/K for composites up to 5 wt% SWCNT. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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15 pages, 17993 KiB  
Article
Ionic Liquids as Alternative Curing Agents for Conductive Epoxy/CNT Nanocomposites with Improved Adhesive Properties
by Lidia Orduna, Itziar Otaegi, Nora Aranburu and Gonzalo Guerrica-Echevarría
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(4), 725; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano13040725 - 14 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1326
Abstract
Good dispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) together with effective curing were obtained in epoxy/CNT nanocomposites (NCs) using three different ionic liquids (ILs). Compared to conventional amine-cured epoxy systems, lower electrical percolation thresholds were obtained in some of the IL-based epoxy systems. For example, [...] Read more.
Good dispersion of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) together with effective curing were obtained in epoxy/CNT nanocomposites (NCs) using three different ionic liquids (ILs). Compared to conventional amine-cured epoxy systems, lower electrical percolation thresholds were obtained in some of the IL-based epoxy systems. For example, the percolation threshold of the trihexyltetradecylphosphonium dicyanamide (IL-P-DCA)-based system was 0.001 wt.%. The addition of CNTs was not found to have any significant effect on the thermal or low-strain mechanical properties of the nanocomposites, but it did improve their adhesive properties considerably compared to the unfilled systems. This study demonstrates that ILs can be used to successfully replace traditional amine-based curing agents for the production of electrically conductive epoxy/CNT NCs and adhesives, as a similar or better balance of properties was achieved. This represents a step towards greater sustainability given that the vapor pressure of ILs is low, and the amount needed to effectively cure epoxy resins is significantly lower than any of their counterparts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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11 pages, 1869 KiB  
Article
Measuring the Diameter of Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes Using AFM
by Dusan Vobornik, Maohui Chen, Shan Zou and Gregory P. Lopinski
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(3), 477; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano13030477 - 24 Jan 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2492
Abstract
In this work, we identify two issues that can significantly affect the accuracy of AFM measurements of the diameter of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and propose a protocol that reduces errors associated with these issues. Measurements of the nanotube height under different applied [...] Read more.
In this work, we identify two issues that can significantly affect the accuracy of AFM measurements of the diameter of single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and propose a protocol that reduces errors associated with these issues. Measurements of the nanotube height under different applied forces demonstrate that even moderate forces significantly compress several different types of SWCNTs, leading to errors in measured diameters that must be minimized and/or corrected. Substrate and nanotube roughness also make major contributions to the uncertainty associated with the extraction of diameters from measured images. An analysis method has been developed that reduces the uncertainties associated with this extraction to <0.1 nm. This method is then applied to measure the diameter distribution of individual highly semiconducting enriched nanotubes in networks prepared from polyfluorene/SWCNT dispersions. Good agreement is obtained between diameter distributions for the same sample measured with two different commercial AFM instruments, indicating the reproducibility of the method. The reduced uncertainty in diameter measurements based on this method facilitates: (1) determination of the thickness of the polymer layer wrapping the nanotubes and (2) measurement of nanotube compression at tube–tube junctions within the network. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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18 pages, 5418 KiB  
Article
Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes with Red Phosphorus in Lithium-Ion Batteries: Effect of Surface and Encapsulated Phosphorus
by Anna A. Vorfolomeeva, Svetlana G. Stolyarova, Igor P. Asanov, Elena V. Shlyakhova, Pavel E. Plyusnin, Evgeny A. Maksimovskiy, Evgeny Yu. Gerasimov, Andrey L. Chuvilin, Alexander V. Okotrub and Lyubov G. Bulusheva
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(1), 153; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano13010153 - 29 Dec 2022
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2106
Abstract
Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with their high surface area, electrical conductivity, mechanical strength and elasticity are an ideal component for the development of composite electrode materials for batteries. Red phosphorus has a very high theoretical capacity with respect to lithium, but has poor [...] Read more.
Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) with their high surface area, electrical conductivity, mechanical strength and elasticity are an ideal component for the development of composite electrode materials for batteries. Red phosphorus has a very high theoretical capacity with respect to lithium, but has poor conductivity and expends considerably as a result of the reaction with lithium ions. In this work, we compare the electrochemical performance of commercial SWCNTs with red phosphorus deposited on the outer surface of nanotubes and/or encapsulated in internal channels of nanotubes in lithium-ion batteries. External phosphorus, condensed from vapors, is easily oxidized upon contact with the environment and only the un-oxidized phosphorus cores participate in electrochemical reactions. The support of the SWCNT network ensures a stable long-term cycling for these phosphorus particles. The tubular space inside the SWCNTs stimulate the formation of chain phosphorus structures. The chains reversibly interact with lithium ions and provide a specific capacity of 1545 mAh·g−1 (calculated on the mass of phosphorus in the sample) at a current density of 0.1 A·g−1. As compared to the sample containing external phosphorus, SWCNTs with encapsulated phosphorus demonstrate higher reaction rates and a slight loss of initial capacity (~7%) on the 1000th cycle at 5 A·g−1. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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16 pages, 4490 KiB  
Article
Plasmon Effect of Ag Nanoparticles on TiO2/rGO Nanostructures for Enhanced Energy Harvesting and Environmental Remediation
by Seenidurai Athithya, Valparai Surangani Manikandan, Santhana Krishnan Harish, Kuppusamy Silambarasan, Shanmugam Gopalakrishnan, Hiroya Ikeda, Mani Navaneethan and Jayaram Archana
Nanomaterials 2023, 13(1), 65; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano13010065 - 23 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1659
Abstract
We report Ag nanoparticles infused with mesosphere TiO2/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheet (TiO2/rGO/Ag) hybrid nanostructures have been successfully fabricated using a series of solution process synthesis routes and an in-situ growth method. The prepared hybrid nanostructure is utilized for [...] Read more.
We report Ag nanoparticles infused with mesosphere TiO2/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheet (TiO2/rGO/Ag) hybrid nanostructures have been successfully fabricated using a series of solution process synthesis routes and an in-situ growth method. The prepared hybrid nanostructure is utilized for the fabrication of photovoltaic cells and the photocatalytic degradation of pollutants. The photovoltaic characteristics of a dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) device with plasmonic hybrid nanostructure (TiO2/rGO/Ag) photoanode achieved a highest short-circuit current density (JSC) of 16.05 mA/cm2, an open circuit voltage (VOC) of 0.74 V and a fill factor (FF) of 62.5%. The fabricated plasmonic DSSC device exhibited a maximum power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 7.27%, which is almost 1.7 times higher than the TiO2-based DSSC (4.10%). For the photocatalytic degradation of pollutants, the prepared TiO2/rGO/Ag photocatalyst exhibited superior photodegradation of methylene blue (MB) dye molecules at around 93% and the mineralization of total organic compounds (TOC) by 80% in aqueous solution after 160 min under continuous irradiation with natural sunlight. Moreover, the enhanced performance of the DSSC device and the MB dye degradation exhibited by the hybrid nanostructures are more associated with their high surface area. Therefore, the proposed plasmonic hybrid nanostructure system is a further development for photovoltaics and environmental remediation applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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16 pages, 3170 KiB  
Article
Electrosprayed CNTs on Electrospun PVDF-Co-HFP Membrane for Robust Membrane Distillation
by Lijo Francis and Nidal Hilal
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(23), 4331; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12234331 - 06 Dec 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3079
Abstract
In this investigation, the electrospraying of CNTs on an electrospun PVDF-Co-HFP membrane was carried out to fabricate robust membranes for the membrane distillation (MD) process. A CNT-modified PVDF-Co-HFP membrane was heat pressed and characterized for water contact angle, liquid entry pressure (LEP), pore [...] Read more.
In this investigation, the electrospraying of CNTs on an electrospun PVDF-Co-HFP membrane was carried out to fabricate robust membranes for the membrane distillation (MD) process. A CNT-modified PVDF-Co-HFP membrane was heat pressed and characterized for water contact angle, liquid entry pressure (LEP), pore size distribution, tensile strength, and surface morphology. A higher water contact angle, higher liquid entry pressure (LEP), and higher tensile strength were observed in the electrosprayed CNT-coated PVDF-Co-HFP membrane than in the pristine membrane. The MD process test was conducted at varying feed temperatures using a 3.5 wt. % simulated seawater feed solution. The CNT-modified membrane showed an enhancement in the temperature polarization coefficient (TPC) and water permeation flux up to 16% and 24.6%, respectively. Field-effect scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) images of the PVDF-Co-HFP and CNT-modified membranes were observed before and after the MD process. Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) confirmed the presence of inorganic salt ions deposited on the membrane surface after the DCMD process. Permeate water quality and rejection of inorganic salt ions were quantitatively analyzed using ion chromatography (IC) and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The water permeation flux during the 24-h continuous DCMD operation remained constant with a >99.8% inorganic salt rejection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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20 pages, 4290 KiB  
Article
Elevated Adsorption of Lead and Arsenic over Silver Nanoparticles Deposited on Poly(amidoamine) Grafted Carbon Nanotubes
by Gururaj M. Neelgund, Sanjuana F. Aguilar, Mahaveer D. Kurkuri, Debora F. Rodrigues and Ram L. Ray
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(21), 3852; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12213852 - 01 Nov 2022
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 1724
Abstract
An efficient adsorbent, CNTs–PAMAM–Ag, was prepared by grafting fourth-generation aromatic poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) to carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and successive deposition of Ag nanoparticles. The FT–IR, XRD, TEM and XPS results confirmed the successful grafting of PAMAM onto CNTs and deposition of Ag nanoparticles. The [...] Read more.
An efficient adsorbent, CNTs–PAMAM–Ag, was prepared by grafting fourth-generation aromatic poly(amidoamine) (PAMAM) to carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and successive deposition of Ag nanoparticles. The FT–IR, XRD, TEM and XPS results confirmed the successful grafting of PAMAM onto CNTs and deposition of Ag nanoparticles. The absorption efficiency of CNTs–PAMAM–Ag was evaluated by estimating the adsorption of two toxic contaminants in water, viz., Pb(II) and As(III). Using CNTs–PAMAM–Ag, about 99 and 76% of Pb(II) and As(III) adsorption, respectively, were attained within 15 min. The controlling mechanisms for Pb(II) and As(III) adsorption dynamics were revealed by applying pseudo-first and second-order kinetic models. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model followed the adsorption of Pb(II) and As(III). Therefore, the incidence of chemisorption through sharing or exchanging electrons between Pb(II) or As(III) ions and CNTs–PAMAM–Ag could be the rate-controlling step in the adsorption process. Further, the Weber–Morris intraparticle pore diffusion model was employed to find the reaction pathways and the rate-controlling step in the adsorption. It revealed that intraparticle diffusion was not a rate-controlling step in the adsorption of Pb(II) and As(III); instead, it was controlled by both intraparticle diffusion and the boundary layer effect. The adsorption equilibrium was evaluated using the Langmuir, Freundlich, and Temkin isotherm models. The kinetic data of Pb(II) and As(III) adsorption was adequately fitted to the Langmuir isotherm model compared to the Freundlich and Temkin models. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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18 pages, 4522 KiB  
Article
Carbon Nanotube Migration in Melt-Compounded PEO/PE Blends and Its Impact on Electrical and Rheological Properties
by Calin Constantin Lencar, Shashank Ramakrishnan and Uttandaraman Sundararaj
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(21), 3772; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12213772 - 26 Oct 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1234
Abstract
In this work, the effects of MWCNT concentration and mixing time on the migration of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) within polyethylene oxide (PEO)/polyethylene (PE) blends are studied. Two-step mixing used to pre-localize MWCNTs within the PE phase and subsequently to observe their migration [...] Read more.
In this work, the effects of MWCNT concentration and mixing time on the migration of multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) within polyethylene oxide (PEO)/polyethylene (PE) blends are studied. Two-step mixing used to pre-localize MWCNTs within the PE phase and subsequently to observe their migration into the thermodynamically favored PEO phase. SEM micrographs show that many MWCNTs migrated into PEO. PEO/PE 40:60 polymer blend nanocomposites with 3 vol% MWCNTs mixed for short durations exhibited exceptional electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) and electrical conductivity (14.1 dB and 22.1 S/m, respectively), with properties dropping significantly at higher mixing times, suggesting the disruption of percolated MWCNT networks within the PE phase. PE grafted with maleic anhydride (PEMA) was introduced as a compatibilizer to arrest the migration of MWCNTs by creating a barrier at the PEO/PE interface. For the compatibilized system, EMI SE and electrical conductivity measurements showed a peak in electrical properties at 5 min of mixing (15.6 dB and 68.7 S/m), higher than those found for uncompatibilized systems. These improvements suggest that compatibilization can be effective at halting MWCNT migration. Although utilizing differences in thermodynamic affinity to draw MWCNTs toward the polymer/polymer interface of polymer blend systems can be an effective way to achieve interfacial localization, an excessively low viscosity of the destination phase may play a major role in reducing the entrapment of MWCNTs at the interface. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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11 pages, 3081 KiB  
Article
High Permittivity Polymer Composites on the Basis of Long Single-Walled Carbon Nanotubes: The Role of the Nanotube Length
by Shamil Galyaltdinov, Ivan Lounev, Timur Khamidullin, Seyyed Alireza Hashemi, Albert Nasibulin and Ayrat M. Dimiev
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(19), 3538; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12193538 - 10 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2099
Abstract
Controlling the permittivity of dielectric composites is critical for numerous applications dealing with matter/electromagnetic radiation interaction. In this study, we have prepared polymer composites, based on a silicone elastomer matrix and Tuball carbon nanotubes (CNT) via a simple preparation procedure. The as-prepared composites [...] Read more.
Controlling the permittivity of dielectric composites is critical for numerous applications dealing with matter/electromagnetic radiation interaction. In this study, we have prepared polymer composites, based on a silicone elastomer matrix and Tuball carbon nanotubes (CNT) via a simple preparation procedure. The as-prepared composites demonstrated record-high dielectric permittivity both in the low-frequency range (102–107 Hz) and in the X-band (8.2–12.4 GHz), significantly exceeding the literature data for such types of composite materials at similar CNT content. Thus, with the 2 wt% filler loading, the permittivity values reach 360 at 106 Hz and >26 in the entire X-band. In similar literature, even the use of conductive polymer hosts and various highly conductive additives had not resulted in such high permittivity values. We attribute this phenomenon to specific structural features of the used Tuball nanotubes, namely their length and ability to form in the polymer matrix percolating network in the form of neuron-shaped clusters. The low cost and large production volumes of Tuball nanotubes, as well as the ease of the composite preparation procedure open the doors for production of cost-efficient, low weight and flexible composites with superior high permittivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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6 pages, 1621 KiB  
Article
Controlling CNT-Based Nanorotors via Hydroxyl Groups
by Boyang Zhang, Rui Li and Qing Peng
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(19), 3363; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12193363 - 27 Sep 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1314
Abstract
Nanomotor systems have attracted extensive attention due to their applications in nanorobots and nanodevices. The control of their response is crucial but presents a great challenge. In this work, the rotating and braking processes of a carbon nanotube (CNT)-based rotor system have been [...] Read more.
Nanomotor systems have attracted extensive attention due to their applications in nanorobots and nanodevices. The control of their response is crucial but presents a great challenge. In this work, the rotating and braking processes of a carbon nanotube (CNT)-based rotor system have been studied using molecular dynamics simulation. The speed of response can be tuned by controlling the ratio of hydroxyl groups on the edges. The ratio of hydroxyl groups is positively correlated with the speed of response. The mechanism involved is that the strong hydrogen bonds formed between interfaces increase the interface interaction. Incremental increase in the hydroxyl group concentration causes more hydrogen bonds and thus strengthens the interconnection, resulting in the enhancement of the speed of response. The phonon density of states analysis reveals that the vibration of hydroxyl groups plays the key role in energy dissipation. Our results suggest a novel routine to remotely control the nanomotors by modulating the chemical environment, including tuning the hydroxyl groups concentration and pH chemistry. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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12 pages, 4107 KiB  
Article
Bioinspired Spinosum Capacitive Pressure Sensor Based on CNT/PDMS Nanocomposites for Broad Range and High Sensitivity
by Yanhao Duan, Jian Wu, Shixue He, Benlong Su, Zhe Li and Youshan Wang
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(19), 3265; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12193265 - 20 Sep 2022
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 2154
Abstract
Flexible pressure sensors have garnered much attention recently owing to their prospective applications in fields such as structural health monitoring. Capacitive pressure sensors have been extensively researched due to their exceptional features, such as a simple structure, strong repeatability, minimal loss and temperature [...] Read more.
Flexible pressure sensors have garnered much attention recently owing to their prospective applications in fields such as structural health monitoring. Capacitive pressure sensors have been extensively researched due to their exceptional features, such as a simple structure, strong repeatability, minimal loss and temperature independence. Inspired by the skin epidermis, we report a high-sensitivity flexible capacitive pressure sensor with a broad detection range comprising a bioinspired spinosum dielectric layer. Using an abrasive paper template, the bioinspired spinosum was fabricated using carbon nanotube/polydimethylsiloxane (CNT/PDMS) composites. It was observed that nanocomposites comprising 1 wt% CNTs had excellent sensing properties. These capacitive pressure sensors allowed them to function at a wider pressure range (~500 kPa) while maintaining sensitivity (0.25 kPa−1) in the range of 0–50 kPa, a quick response time of approximately 20 ms and a high stability even after 10,000 loading–unloading cycles. Finally, a capacitive pressure sensor array was created to detect the deformation of tires, which provides a fresh approach to achieving intelligent tires. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

19 pages, 5055 KiB  
Review
Decadal Journey of CNT-Based Analytical Biosensing Platforms in the Detection of Human Viruses
by Joydip Sengupta and Chaudhery Mustansar Hussain
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(23), 4132; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12234132 - 23 Nov 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1824
Abstract
It has been proven that viral infections pose a serious hazard to humans and also affect social health, including morbidity and mental suffering, as illustrated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The early detection and isolation of virally infected people are, thus, required to control [...] Read more.
It has been proven that viral infections pose a serious hazard to humans and also affect social health, including morbidity and mental suffering, as illustrated by the COVID-19 pandemic. The early detection and isolation of virally infected people are, thus, required to control the spread of viruses. Due to the outstanding and unparalleled properties of nanomaterials, numerous biosensors were developed for the early detection of viral diseases via sensitive, minimally invasive, and simple procedures. To that aim, viral detection technologies based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are being developed as viable alternatives to existing diagnostic approaches. This article summarizes the advancements in CNT-based biosensors since the last decade in the detection of different human viruses, namely, SARS-CoV-2, dengue, influenza, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and hepatitis. Finally, the shortcomings and benefits of CNT-based biosensors for the detection of viruses are outlined and discussed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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24 pages, 3552 KiB  
Review
Controllable Preparation and Strengthening Strategies towards High-Strength Carbon Nanotube Fibers
by Yukang Zhu, Hongjie Yue, Muhammad Junaid Aslam, Yunxiang Bai, Zhenxing Zhu and Fei Wei
Nanomaterials 2022, 12(19), 3478; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano12193478 - 05 Oct 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2532
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with superior mechanical properties are expected to play a role in the next generation of critical engineering mechanical materials. Crucial advances have been made in CNTs, as it has been reported that the tensile strength of defect-free CNTs and carbon [...] Read more.
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with superior mechanical properties are expected to play a role in the next generation of critical engineering mechanical materials. Crucial advances have been made in CNTs, as it has been reported that the tensile strength of defect-free CNTs and carbon nanotube bundles can approach the theoretical limit. However, the tensile strength of macro carbon nanotube fibers (CNTFs) is far lower than the theoretical level. Although some reviews have summarized the development of such fiber materials, few of them have focused on the controllable preparation and performance optimization of high-strength CNTFs at different scales. Therefore, in this review, we will analyze the characteristics and latest challenges of multiscale CNTFs in preparation and strength optimization. First, the structure and preparation of CNTs are introduced. Then, the preparation methods and tensile strength characteristics of CNTFs at different scales are discussed. Based on the analysis of tensile fracture, we summarize some typical strategies for optimizing tensile performance around defect and tube–tube interaction control. Finally, we introduce some emerging applications for CNTFs in mechanics. This review aims to provide insights and prospects for the controllable preparation of CNTFs with ultra-high tensile strength for emerging cutting-edge applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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25 pages, 3789 KiB  
Review
Mechanical Performance and Applications of CNTs Reinforced Polymer Composites—A Review
by N. M. Nurazzi, F. A. Sabaruddin, M. M. Harussani, S. H. Kamarudin, M. Rayung, M. R. M. Asyraf, H. A. Aisyah, M. N. F. Norrrahim, R. A. Ilyas, N. Abdullah, E. S. Zainudin, S. M. Sapuan and A. Khalina
Nanomaterials 2021, 11(9), 2186; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/nano11092186 - 26 Aug 2021
Cited by 107 | Viewed by 6089
Abstract
Developments in the synthesis and scalable manufacturing of carbon nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been widely used in the polymer material industry over the last few decades, resulting in a series of fascinating multifunctional composites used in fields ranging from portable electronic [...] Read more.
Developments in the synthesis and scalable manufacturing of carbon nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have been widely used in the polymer material industry over the last few decades, resulting in a series of fascinating multifunctional composites used in fields ranging from portable electronic devices, entertainment and sports to the military, aerospace, and automotive sectors. CNTs offer good thermal and electrical properties, as well as a low density and a high Young’s modulus, making them suitable nanofillers for polymer composites. As mechanical reinforcements for structural applications CNTs are unique due to their nano-dimensions and size, as well as their incredible strength. Although a large number of studies have been conducted on these novel materials, there have only been a few reviews published on their mechanical performance in polymer composites. As a result, in this review we have covered some of the key application factors as well as the mechanical properties of CNTs-reinforced polymer composites. Finally, the potential uses of CNTs hybridised with polymer composites reinforced with natural fibres such as kenaf fibre, oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) fibre, bamboo fibre, and sugar palm fibre have been highlighted. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 70th Year Anniversary of Carbon Nanotube Discovery—Focus on Real World Solutions)
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