Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are the strongest material ever made by mankind. However, they are tiny and need to be assembled into a macroscopic composite to utilize their strength. Dr. Yuntian Zhu, of North Carolina State University, has developed a new nanotechnology to make CNT composites that are stronger than any current engineering materials. More importantly, his technology is conducive to scaling up for industrial production. If successful, the new strong, lightweight and conductive carbon nanotube composites can revolutionize and advance many high technologies from sporting goods to space travel. For example, new commercial airplanes are using carbon fiber composites to reduce weight. However, the poor conductivity makes airplanes susceptible to thunder-strikes when flying into clouds. The conductive and strong CNT composites could be used on the outer skin of the aircraft fuselage to solve this problem without adding parasitic weight. In addition this strong, light material would be in high demand for making space structures and vehicles for space explorations such as travel to Mars!

Dr. Zhu and his team solve problem with an "outside-the-box" approach. In fact, in addition to being used for commercial aircrafts and space travel, Dr. Zhu is using CNT composites to reach greater heights as he helps to develop the necessary materials for an elevator to space (http://www.thespacereview.com/article/48/1) . Dr. Zhu and his team often take problems that have been unsuccessful and find solutions that are revolutionary. His innovative solutions save money for businesses and as well as consumers. For example, it is his hope that the next generation of airplanes and shuttles will be lighter weight and therefore allow aircrafts to get better mileage more efficiently and affordably. Dr. Zhu explains that he hopes to continue to solve similar problems in "the most unique, innovative, and simple ways."

Current research includes:

• Scaling Up: Dr. Zhu and his team have demonstrated the feasibility of the ultra-strong, lightweight, and conductive CNT composites in the lab. In the next 3-5 years, he hopes to make a large sample for other research labs and industrial labs to use for experiments. This critical step before commercialization will lead to real industrial use. 

• Good Facility: Dr. Zhu and his team are hoping to invest time and money into a new facility where they are able to produce carbon nanotubes with consistent quality in order to make a greater impact with his innovative product.