We are constantly amazed at the groundbreaking capabilities of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and this month has been no different. A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan and published in Science demonstrated how twisted CNT yarns emit ultra-bright circularly polarised light through the mechanism of black-body radiation. 

The researchers twisted CNT yarns into helical filaments, creating both left-handed and right-handed structures, which they then heated using electrical currents, causing them to emit light through black-body radiation. The emitted light was circularly polarised with significantly stronger polarisation than that of conventional chiral light emitters, while the light itself was also much brighter than other circularly polarised light sources. Additionally, the wavelength and intensity of the emitted light could be precisely controlled by adjusting the voltage, offering a level of tunability that is highly advantageous for optical and telecommunications applications.

A Flexible Alternative to Optical Fibres

One of the most promising aspects of this breakthrough is that these CNT filaments could be used as both light and electricity transmitters. In principle, they could simultaneously be employed for data and power transmission, reducing the need for separate cables. Unlike traditional glass or plastic optical fibres, CNT yarns are highly flexible, making them far more robust and less likely to snap or break. This flexibility makes them particularly suitable for use in environments where space is limited, such as aircraft, spacecraft, and other compact installations.

CNTs’ Unique Properties Open Up Innovative Applications

Unlike many existing circularly polarised light-emitting materials, these nanotubes can withstand extremely high temperatures – over 1000^oC – without degrading. This hugely advantageous property opens up new opportunities for use in environments where conventional optical components would fail, such as industrial sensing and aerospace applications.

Moreover, the ability to generate circularly polarised light is particularly valuable in telecommunications. circularly polarised light can be used to encode information in a way that increases data transmission capacity, potentially improving the efficiency of optical networks. By leveraging this property, CNT-based circularly polarised light emitters could enable faster, more secure communication networks, reducing signal interference and allowing for more reliable data transfer.

TrimTabs’ Take

This discovery represents a significant step forward in materials science. The ability to precisely control the structural properties of these filaments means that researchers can design materials with enhanced optical, electrical, and mechanical characteristics. This could lead to the development of faster, energy-efficient electronics, as well as advanced materials that improve the durability and functionality of consumer products.

With their unique combination of flexibility, high-temperature resistance, and polarised light emission, twisted CNT yarns have the potential to transform multiple industries. As researchers continue to refine their production, we are likely to start seeing these materials integrated into applications from optical networks to consumer electronics and aerospace technologies. We can’t wait to see where this leads!

To read the full article, click the link below. 

Bright, circularly polarised black-body radiation from twisted nanocarbon filaments