There are four primary types of nanotubes: Membrane, DNA, Inorganic and Carbon. The membrane nanotube is formed from the plasma membrane in animal cells to facilitate communication between cells. DNA tubes are a basic type that can commonly be modified to make other things, like carbon nano tubes. The Inorganic variety is often composed of metal oxide or titanium dioxide and can be used for a number of industrial uses. Lastly, the real superstar — Carbon tubes – are the most useful in practical applications but may potentially be the riskiest in the long run.

Researchers have discovered that carbon nanotubes in mass quantities can have a number of vital nanotechnology applications. Using large nanotube sheets, these nano-sized superstars can conduct electricity, emit light or heat, absorb solar power, create more flexible surfaces, provide even light distribution and strengthen sails. “When you have a remarkable material, it’s easy to make advances in terms of applications,” said head researcher Ray Baughman at the University of Texas, Dallas. Truly, carbon nano tubes are the way of the future.

There are many potential nanotechnology applications for these new strong sheets of nanotubes, Baughman says. One thought is that they can create artificial muscle material, which can move and function fluidly. They are also looking at the possibility of using a nano sheet in sensor lights or headlights. Solar cells for electric vehicles and electronic surfaces can also work with carbon nano-tubes. The space elevator is another futuristic device making use of the nanotube. In addition to civilian product uses, the military has a need for such strong materials. “Devices that are required in many of the Air Force missions are somewhat different from commercial ones in the sense that they are often exposed to harsh environments while maintaining their maximum performance,” said Dr. Jiwoong Park, a researcher at Cornell University. “Carbon-based nano-structures, including carbon tubes and graphenes (thin layers of graphite) present many exciting properties that may lead to new device structures.”

Nanotubes comprised of carbon are among the most promising nanomaterials, according to Enrico Bergamaschi of the University of Parma Medical School. Despite their innovative properties, the tiny size of carbon tubes may have detrimental effects that we are unaware of. Nanoscience has only been around for 20 years, so there really hasn’t been the opportunity to complete a study of long-term exposure to the particles. Potential dangers, he warns, are that small particles will remain in the lungs or other organs for extended periods unless combined with other chemical groups, which reduces cytotoxicity. Bergamaschi says, “As more of these materials are produced, there is an urgent need to refine strategies to assess their possible effects on employees who represent the main exposed population, along with characterizing exposure, so that appropriate safety regulations can be put in place if needed.”

Jeremy Larson is a foremost expert in the acid reflux cure. He has had extensive experience and conducted countless experiments in finding natural remedy for acid reflux treatment. He is also a highly acclaimed writer in the medical field and you can find out more at RemedyForAcidReflux.com.