Researchers from Rice University are working on two new nanotechnology innovations that could create breakthroughs in optoelectronics, pharmaceuticals, biomedicine, communication, and quantum computing engineering. The two new innovations both involve the creation of wafer-scale synthetic chiral carbon nanotube (CNT) assemblies.
Rice University Takes a Giant Leap Forward in Nanotechnology – www.opp.today
Excerpt:
Researchers at Rice University have achieved a significant breakthrough in the field of materials science and nanotechnology, with far-reaching implications across various industries. By developing two innovative methods for creating wafer-scale synthetic chiral carbon nanotube (CNT) assemblies, the scientists have unlocked new possibilities for the future of optoelectronics, pharmaceuticals, biomedicine, communication, and quantum computing engineering.
Rather than relying on traditional approaches, the researchers discovered that motion can introduce a chiral twist to an orderly arrangement of carbon nanotubes. This groundbreaking finding has enabled them to control the ellipticity of polarized light, something previously considered unattainable. One method involves creating tornado-like thin films, while the other involves twisted and stacked thin films. Both techniques have demonstrated the ability to precisely manipulate the ellipticity of polarized light, breaking previous records in the process.
The impact of this research extends to multiple areas. The ability to produce large quantities of films with uniform diameters and orientations of nanotubes could ignite innovation in various domains. Applications range from optoelectronic devices such as LEDs, lasers, solar cells, and photodetectors, to tailored materials for pharmaceuticals, biomedicine, communication, and quantum computing engineering. This newfound control and precision open up a world of possibilities for enhancing and customizing materials for specific purposes.