SWCNs

SWCNs, or single-walled carbon nanotubes, are nanoscale allotropes of carbon with a cylindrical structure. They consist of a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, rolled into a seamless tube. The diameter of these tubes is typically on the order of nanometers, while their length can range from micrometers to centimeters. Their unique structure gives rise to extraordinary electronic, thermal, and mechanical properties. Electrically, SWCNs can be metallic or semiconducting depending on their chirality, which is the way the hexagonal lattice is rolled up. This tunability makes them promising candidates for applications in nanoelectronics, such as transistors and sensors. Thermally, SWCNs exhibit exceptionally high thermal conductivity, making them useful for heat dissipation in electronic devices. Mechanically, they are among the strongest and stiffest materials known, possessing high tensile strength and Young's modulus, which suggests their potential use in reinforcing composite materials. The synthesis of SWCNs is typically achieved through methods like chemical vapor deposition (CVD), arc discharge, or laser ablation. Research continues to focus on improving synthesis purity, controlling chirality, and developing scalable manufacturing processes to unlock the full potential of SWCNs for various technological advancements.