Electrical properties of carbon nanotube based fibers and their future use in electrical wiring

Abstract

The production of continuous fibers made purely of carbon nanotubes has paved the way for new macro-scale applications which utilize the superior properties of individual carbon nanotubes. These wire-like macroscopic assemblies of carbon nanotubes were recognized to have a potential to be used in electrical wiring. Carbon nanotube wiring may be extremely light and mechanically stronger and more efficient in transferring high frequency signals than any conventional conducting material, being cost-effective simultaneously. However, transfer of the unique properties of individual CNTs to the macro-scale proves to be quite challenging. This Feature Article gives an overview of the potential of using carbon nanotube fibers as next generation wiring, state of the art developments in this field, and goals to be achieved before carbon nanotubes may be transformed into competitive products. Carbon nanotubes, with their unique properties, could make electrical conductors of unprecedented performance, which could revolutionize energy transport globally. Is it feasible to produce macroscopic conductors from nanoscale structures? This Feature Article presents both the most recent results of a highly promising research program in this area and the key challenges that need to be overcome. © 2014 The Authors. Published by WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.