Nanotubes Science
A nanotube is made of a lattice of single carbon atoms and holds great promise for nanomedicine technology. These easily manipulated particles make excellent sensors that can travel directly to a tumor. Additionally, researchers say they can be used to replace platinum in fuel cells and in energy-saving transistors. Researchers at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Nanotechnology Center say they can grow bigger, faster tomatoes by exposing tomato seeds to carbon nanotubes, which will enrich the germination process, penetrating the seed coats to encourage water uptake. These are just a few of the ongoing studies involving the nano-sized particles.
It has been generally presumed that the nanoparticle only really shines when it is alone. Larger bundles change properties, researchers concluded. However, the new nanotubes made of carbon appear to have the same abilities as the single tubes, as well as increased strength to boot! These nano sheets can withstand extreme sunlight and radiation exposure and extreme temperatures. The sheets are highly susceptible to manipulation by electrical current, heat and light. This may all sound rather obtuse, but Baughman believes they can use these sheets of nanomaterials to create artificial human muscle fibers to use in prosthetic limbs, humanoid robots and flying animal simulators.
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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