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Techniques for Analyzing Nanotube Properties

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)

Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is a common method for characterising the morphology and geometry of carbon nanotubes. SEM also tells us how small, how angular and positioned the nanotubes are, but it can do so only at a very small resolution, usually nanometer-scale.

Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM)

TEM offers more detailed pictures that can be used to see the internal structure and purity of carbon nanotubes. This can be measured with TEM to determine the diameter, wall thickness and deformation of the nanotubes. But because TEM involves an electron beam, the sample can be damaged.

Raman Spectroscopy

Raman Spectroscopy is a non-destructive analysis technique, which can be applied to determine crystallization and purity of carbon nanotubes quickly. From G and D peak in the Raman spectrum, we could determine graphitization level and defectiness of the carbon nanotubes.

Testing Mechanical and Electrical Properties

Mechanical Property Testing

Tensile testing can determine the mechanical properties of carbon nanotubes, such as strength and toughness. These tests generally involve precision instruments that are used to test how nanotubes will deform and fracture under various stress conditions.

Electrical Property Testing

Conductivity, semiconductor characteristics, and other electrical properties are the electrical properties of carbon nanotubes. Current-voltage characteristic tests can evaluate the mechanical properties. For example, connecting carbon nanotubes to metal contact points using current, examining their resistance and conductivity can be measured. AFM can also be used to precisely measure electrical properties of a specific nanotube.

Characterization and testing of carbon nanotubes entails various techniques, each with its own pros and cons. When used in concert with these methods, the shape, behaviour and uses of carbon nanotubes can be described in detail.

What Are the Applications of Carbon Nanotubes?

Key Applications in Industry and Research

Electronics and Semiconductors

Carbon nanotubes are well-studied and used in electronics and semiconductors. For their great conductivity and electron mobility, carbon nanotubes are a part of high-performance transistors, sensors, field-effect transistors and other electronics. In addition, carbon nanotubes are used in the fabrication of novel nanoelectronics like nanoprobes and nanoscale semiconductor devices.

Materials Science and Composites

Carbon nanotubes used in materials science are used as reinforcements to form strong, highly conductory composites. These are used in many industries like aerospace, automotive, and sports gear. Carbon nanotubes, for instance, can mechanically enlarge the properties of plastics and make them stronger and lighter.

Biomedical Applications

Carbon nanotubes have unimaginable potential in the biomedical world. They are deployed in drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, biosensors and antibacterial coatings. Due to their stability and chemical inertness, carbon nanotubes are ideal carriers of drugs and biocompatible substances.