NetComposites: Applications for Graphene Nanotubes Explored at China Conference

More than 400 delegates from 22 countries gathered in Shanghai, China, for the 2018 Nanoaugmented Materials Summit (NAUM) to explore the applications for graphene nanotubes (also known as single wall carbon nanotubes).

Competition is fierce in the world’s largest developed markets, and manufacturers are constantly searching for the most innovative technologies, such as graphene nanotubes, to boost their materials’ performance.

“We’re looking for the strongest, lightweight, multi-functional, energy-saving material – such as the combination of single wall carbon nanotubes and our aluminium product,” said Professor Hansang Kwon, CEO of Next Generation Materials.

A growing number of research and development projects in this field are rapidly transforming into highly competitive market products.

“Nano materials such as single wall carbon nanotubes boost physical properties, increase impact strength, improve wear resistance, and more,” said Jim Chin I Lin, General Manager of Zhongshan A&E Machinery Industry Company.

Graphene nanotubes bring added value to composite applications, owing to their unique combination of superior conductivity and a potential for mechanical property improvement.

“Nanotubes impart superior electrical conductivity and mechanical improvements to unsaturated polyester systems,” said Zhao Mi from Jiangsu Bi-gold New Materials. “Single wall carbon nanotubes significantly increase abrasion resistance in SMC/BMC thermosets. They decrease crack growth and provide a significant increase in tensile strength and improvement in anti-corrosion resistance.”

Diego A. Santamaria Razo, Director of Innovation at the Centre for Sustainable Construction (CRH), emphasised that carbon nanotubes can be also used to enhance mechanical properties in concrete.

Source: NetComposites