Carbon Nanotube Production

Increased production of multi-wall carbon nanotubes is causing a drop in prices.

Multiwall carbon nanotubes are rapidly emerging as an interesting alternate to carbon black for electrostatic discharge applications.

"There will be three important applications for multiwall carbon nanotubes," says Page McAndrew, senior research scientist at Arkema, one of the leading developers of the new reinforcement technology. "One is imparting electrical conductivity, primarily for ESD applications. Two is for improving mechanical performance, and three is for flame retardancy."

ESD applications means using a conductive material to prevent static electricity buildup. ESD stands for ElectroStatic Discharge. Important in things like fuel lines.

And what is this fabulous new rate of world production that is driving down prices?

Production for multiwall carbon nanotubes is still in the pilot stage and global capacity today is estimated by trade sources at less than 500 metric tons. Capacity could grow tenfold or more based on announced increases in capacity.

Obviously prices will come down further and make more applications attractive as production increases.