single-walled carbon nanotube

chemical compound

Also known as: SWNT

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July 16, 2026

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A single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) is a nanoscale hollow tube made of carbon atoms, essentially a single sheet of graphene rolled into a cylinder with a diameter of about 1 nanometer. These structures are part of the fullerene family and were first synthesized in 1993.12

SWNTs can have different structures, classified as "zigzag," "armchair," or "chiral," based on how the graphene sheet is rolled. These structural variations lead to distinct electrical and mechanical properties. SWNTs exhibit exceptional tensile strength and are excellent conductors of heat and electricity, with potential applications in electronics, materials science, and medicine. However, research into their potential health risks, similar to asbestos, is ongoing.12

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fullerene
Carbon nanotubes
It was soon shown that single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) could be produced by this method if a cobalt-nickel catalyst was used. In 1996 a group led by Smalley produced SWNTs in high purity by laser vaporization of carbon impregnated with cobalt and nickel. These nanotubes are essentially elongated fullerenes.
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It was soon shown that single-walled nanotubes (SWNTs) could be produced by this method if a cobalt-nickel catalyst was used. In 1996 a group led by Smalley produced SWNTs in high purity by laser vaporization of carbon impregnated with cobalt and nickel. These nanotubes are essentially elongated fullerenes.
Read More