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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.

There are many potential nanotechnology applications for these new strong sheets of nanotubes, Baughman says. One thought is that they can create artificial muscle material, which can move and function fluidly. They are also looking at the possibility of using a nano sheet in sensor lights or headlights. Solar cells for electric vehicles and electronic surfaces can also work with carbon nano-tubes. The space elevator is another futuristic device making use of the nanotube. In addition to civilian product uses, the military has a need for such strong materials. “Devices that are required in many of the Air Force missions are somewhat different from commercial ones in the sense that they are often exposed to harsh environments while maintaining their maximum performance,” said Dr. Jiwoong Park, a researcher at Cornell University. “Carbon-based nano-structures, including carbon tubes and graphenes (thin layers of graphite) present many exciting properties that may lead to new device structures.”

Nanotubes comprised of carbon are among the most promising nanomaterials, according to Enrico Bergamaschi of the University of Parma Medical School. Despite their innovative properties, the tiny size of carbon tubes may have detrimental effects that we are unaware of. Nanoscience has only been around for 20 years, so there really hasn’t been the opportunity to complete a study of long-term exposure to the particles. Potential dangers, he warns, are that small particles will remain in the lungs or other organs for extended periods unless combined with other chemical groups, which reduces cytotoxicity. Bergamaschi says, “As more of these materials are produced, there is an urgent need to refine strategies to assess their possible effects on employees who represent the main exposed population, along with characterizing exposure, so that appropriate safety regulations can be put in place if needed.”

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