Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs)

Researchers at Beijing Renhe Information Technology Co., Ltd. have developed a new CNT/BC composite hydrogel membrane, designated CBC4. This material could enhance the mechanical properties of carbon nanotube-based composites, offering potential improvements in strength and flexibility for various applications.

Professor Chang Liu of the Institute of Metal Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences presented research at an NTU MSE seminar on SWCNT-based hybrid materials, including a SWCNT/Cu core-shell fiber with a specific electrical conductivity of 1.15×10⁴ S m² kg⁻¹ and FeCl3-filled CNT fibers reaching 1.35×10⁷ S m⁻¹ conductivity and 2.54 GPa tensile strength. The work advances CNT fiber and film applications in electrical conductors, thermoelectric devices, and electrocatalysis by addressing the longstanding dispersion challenge that has limited SWCNT composite development.

Researchers at the University of Aveiro developed 3D-printed filters from bauxite refining waste (red mud) that removed over 90% of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin within one hour under UV light. The work demonstrates a functional application for carbon nanotubes in photocatalytic water treatment using industrial byproducts, with the material retaining performance across multiple decontamination cycles.

EPFL researchers, led by Nikita Kavokine at the Quantum Plumbing Lab, are studying water confined to nanometer-scale channels and found that electromagnetic coupling between water molecules and channel wall electrons creates a friction mechanism not predicted by classical hydrodynamics. For the carbon nanotubes sector, this work helps explain the anomalously fast water flow observed through carbon nanotubes and points toward nanotube-based systems capable of converting hydraulic energy or improving filtration efficiency.

Canatu Plc restructured its leadership team on June 25, 2026, consolidating reporting lines directly to CEO Maximilian Slawinski and renaming its Automotive business unit to Robotics, Mobility and Defence. The reorganization signals Canatu's broadened market focus for its carbon nanotube products beyond automotive into robotics and defence applications.