A carbon single wall nanotube (SWNT) refers to a nanoscale structure comprised of carbon atoms arranged in a cylindrical fashion, resembling a hollow tube with a diameter on the order of nanometers and an extraordinary length-to-diameter ratio. These nanostructures are classified as "single wall" because they consist of a single layer of carbon atoms, forming only one cylindrical wall.
SWNTs possess unique and remarkable physical and mechanical properties owing to their unique structure. They typically exhibit exceptional strength, stiffness, and electrical conductivity, making them highly sought-after materials in various fields of research and technological applications.
The arrangement of carbon atoms within a SWNT highly influences its properties. The structure of a SWNT is determined by two parameters: its "chirality" and "diameter." Chirality refers to the orientation of the carbon lattice with respect to the axis of the tube. It greatly affects the electronic properties of the SWNT. On the other hand, the diameter determines the size of the tube and is a crucial factor in determining the SWNT's mechanical properties.
The synthesis of SWNTs can be achieved through several methods, such as laser ablation, arc discharge, and chemical vapor deposition. Due to their extraordinary properties, SWNTs have found applications in various fields, including electronics, energy storage, medicine, and composite materials. These applications range from nanoscale devices, such as transistors and sensors, to macroscopic enhancements in materials, thanks to the unique mechanical reinforcement provided by SWNTs.
