Nanotuburile

Nanotuburile are cylindrical molecules consisting of a rolled-up sheet of single-wall carbon atoms. Discovered in 1991 by Sumio Iijima, they possess remarkable electrical and mechanical properties. Their diameter is typically in the nanometer range, while their length can extend to millimeters. This unique structure gives them an extremely high aspect ratio.

The electrical properties of carbon nanotubes can vary depending on their chirality, or the way the graphene sheet is rolled up. Some are metallic, conducting electricity like metals, while others are semiconductors, with conductivity that can be controlled. Mechanically, they are exceptionally strong and stiff, with a tensile strength far exceeding that of steel. They are also very lightweight.

These properties make nanotubules promising candidates for a wide range of applications. In electronics, they could be used to create smaller, faster transistors and conductive films. Their strength and lightness suggest uses in composite materials for aerospace and sporting goods. Nanotubules are also being explored for drug delivery systems, sensors, and energy storage devices due to their high surface area and ability to interact with various molecules. Research continues to explore their full potential and overcome challenges related to large-scale production and integration.