Clear Carbon-Nanotube Films

January 23, 2009 | Source: Technology Review

The first electronic product using carbon nanotubes is slated to hit the market this year. Unidym plans to start selling rolls of its carbon-nanotube-coated plastic films in the second half of 2009.

The transparent, conductive films could make manufacturing LCD screens faster and cheaper. They could enhance the life of touch panels used in ATM screens and supermarket kiosks. They might also pave the way for flexible thin-film solar cells and bright, roll-up color displays. The displays could be used in cell phones, billboards, and electronic books and magazines.