Nanotubes

Carbon nanotubes were discovered soon after the successful laboratory synth esis of fulferenes. Since their discovery in 1997, there has been intensive research activity in the area of carbon nanotubes, not only because of the ir fascinating structural features and properties, but also because of thei r potential technological applications. There is increasing experimental ev idence to show that carbon nanotubes may find use in nanoelectronic devices , displays, and in hydrogen storage. in this article, we discuss various im portant aspects related to the synthesis, structure, characterization, and mechanism of formation of multi-wailed and single-walled carbon nanotubes, followed by a presentation of the important electronic, mechanical, hydroge n storage, and other properties of the nanotubes. Doping, as well as other chemical manipulations with boron and nitrogen, bring about significant cha nges in the properties of the nanotubes. Carbon nanotubes also serve as use ful templates to make other nanostructures. Layered metal chalcogenides, bo ron nitride, and other materials form nanotubes and provide considerable sc ope for study.