Bioinspired carbon nanotube-based materials

Abstract

Bioinspired materials exhibit unique design strategies derived from nature, with remarkable biomimetic structures and identical biological features. Among them, bioinspired carbon nanotube (CNT)-based materials have attracted great interest because CNTs, as construction materials, have several advantages in terms of their structural, chemical, and physical properties. In this review, we present a systematic overview of the progress of CNT-based materials with design inspiration from nature in recent years. Firstly, the advantages of CNTs in the fabrication of bioinspired CNT-based materials are summarized, including their unique structure with high mechanical properties, controllable functionalized surfaces, and high conductivity. Secondly, different design strategies are categorized, where CNTs can directly act as artificial nanochannels, arrange to form CNT-assembled structures, or combine with inorganic, organic, and polymer materials to achieve CNT composites. Thirdly, their applications in reinforcement materials, energy conversion, nanopatterned surfaces, dry adhesion, and bioengineering are discussed. Finally, further challenges and perspectives are outlined, which will offer a comprehensive view and inspiration for scientists to develop bioinspired CNT-based materials with more advanced and beneficial performances.