Nanotubes Science
Nanotubes are rolled up sheets of carbon atoms measuring just one atom thick. These single-wall tubes are unusually sensitive to nearby molecules, researchers say. At Stanford University, scientists discovered that a carbon nanotube network can detect the presence of underwater toxins or explosions. Mark Roberts, a postdoctoral researcher at Sandia National Laboratories explains, “By combining our nanotube self-sorting deposition process with our ultra thin, cross-linked polymer dielectric [insulator] formulation, we’ve enabled underwater, nanotube-based chemical sensors.” This is just one of the exciting studies being done.
To create a string of nanotubes, scientists assemble trillions of strings of individual carbon nano tubes, which are comprised of cylindrical sheets of carbon atoms. In the past, nano sheets were made much like paper is made, by filtering solutions full of nano tubes, peeling the nanomaterials off and letting them dry for a week. Today, lab workers can grow nano forests of bundles stacked vertically, drawing numerous tiny tubes to sheets of duct tape, producing seven meters of sheets per minute. Ray Baughman explains: “A trillion nano tubes must be automatically rotated by about 90 degrees and self-assembled in a parallel fashion for every meter-long, 7 centimeter-wide sheet that we make.”
Nanotubes are incredibly small, versatile and responsive to the molecules surrounding them. As a result, scientists are curious to see how they may be able to sense toxins and treat chemical spills. They want to see how nanotubes can be used medically to detect, identify and treat life-threatening diseases. They want to examine how the carbon nanotube and the inorganic nanotube can be used to create stronger industrial materials and longer lasting energy cells. The possibilities are limitless, but it’s important that the proper protocol is followed, that tests are conducted and that it is safe to work with such tiny and powerful particles.
Beth Kaminski is the co-author of Curing Your Anxiety And Panic Attacks which detailed treating anxiety disorder as well as tips on the various medications for panic disorder available at anxietydisordercure.com.
