nanotubulid

Nanotubulid is a term used in speculative nanotechnology to describe a nanoscale tubular structure consisting of a hollow cylindrical body with functionalized lids at its ends. In proposed designs, the body is formed from rolled two-dimensional lattices such as graphene, transition metal dichalcogenides, or other 2D materials, yielding a seamless cylinder with conductive, semiconductive, or insulating properties depending on composition. The ends carry lid-like caps—molecular units or end caps—that can be chemically or electrostatically gated to control access to the interior cavity. The term is not widely used in peer-reviewed literature and remains largely theoretical.

Fabrication and demonstration: As of now, nanotubulids have not been widely demonstrated in experiments and are mainly discussed in theoretical studies and computational models. Proposed routes include bottom-up self-assembly of precursor molecules that fold into a tube, chemical vapor deposition followed by selective end-cap attachment, or templated synthesis around a nanoscale scaffold. Key challenges include achieving uniform end caps, defect-free bodies, and scalable production.

Properties: The end caps function as tunable barriers, enabling controlled transport of molecules. The interior cavity can host guest species for encapsulation, reaction, or sensing. Mechanical strength and resilience follow those of the base material; electronic properties are adjustable by composition and tube diameter. Stability of end caps under operating conditions is a central design constraint.

Applications and outlook: Potential applications include targeted drug delivery with programmable release, nanoreactors for confined chemistry, nanoscale sensors, and components for nanoelectronic or energy devices. Realization depends on advances in synthesis, functionalization, and safety assessment.