The Dr.Haifie Zhan from QUT is a pioneering global attempt to work out how many methods humanity can utilize a newly discovered substance with enormous potential – diamond based nanothread or DNT. First introduced by Pennsylvania State University last year, single – dimensional DNT is similar to the carbon based nanotubes, hollow cylindrical tubes 10,000 times tinier than the human hair, robust than steel, but brittle.
“The comparison of DNT is even sleeker, integrating kinks of hydrogen in the hollow structure of carbon, known as Stone – Wale transformation defects that I have identified reduced brittleness and supplements flexibility,” says Dr. Zhan, from the QUT School of Physics, Chemistry and Mechanical Engineering.
“That structure prepared DNT an excellent candidate for an assortment of uses. It is feasible DNT may become as ubiquitousa plastic in the future, employed in everything from cars to clothing. I consider myself very lucky to have this opportunity to analyse a novel substance in depth, blue-sky applied research options like these are rare.”
DNT does not seem like a rock diamond. Rather, it name resembles to the way the carbon atoms are linked together, similar to the diamond, offering it its phenomenal strength. Dr. Zhan has Diambeen structuring the features of DNT since it was invented, utilizing large-scale molecular dynamics computing and high-performance simulations. He was the very first to identify the SW defects were the key to the versatility of DNT. “While both DNT and carbon nanotubes have great potential, the more I fabricate DNT properties, the more it appears to be a superior substance,” Dr. Zhan says.
“The defects of SW offer DNT a flexibility that rigid carbon nanotubes cannot replicate – think of it as the difference between sewing with unprepared elements. Also, my simulations have disclosed that the SW defects function like hinges, linking straight sections of DNT and be transforming the spacing of such defects, we can transform or tune the flexibility of the DNT”.
“Further modelling is required to completely investigate all the features of DNT. But, I am excited about the potential assortment of applications it could be utilized for, given we have proven we can regulate its flexibility, strength and conductivity,” says Dr Zhan. He also states that carbon is one of the most abundant elements on planet. It is a renewable resource, so the expenditure of raw material is highly less.
Conclusion
Now, once the costs of manufacturing are viable, DNT would probably be utilized mainly in mechanical applications, linked with other substances to create ultra-thin, strong and light-weight components and composites, like as plane fuselages. The experts plan to experiment how DNT functions as a 2-dimensional networked structure – a sleek layer for potential use in screens and flexible electronics. He also intended to test the viability as a fibre for rope or textiles, from bullet-proof vests.
This is QUT’s Dr Haifei Zhan with model of diamond nanothread
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