Boron-Nitride (BN) Nanotubes (BNNT) at TJNAF

Application/instrumentation:

Boron-Nitride (BN) Nanotubes (BNNT)

Developed at:

Jefferson Lab Free Electron Facility

Developed in:

2008-2011

Result of ONR research:

Jefferson Lab, NASA Langley Research Center and the National Institute of Aerospace have collaborated to create a new technique to synthesize and process high-quality catalyst-free boron-nitride nanotubes (BNNTs).

Application currently being supported by:

NASA

Impact/benefit to spin-off field:

High aspect ratio tubes substantially increases strength in high temperature composites for space structures. Possible applications include:

• Composites with high strength and stiffness for light weight personnel armor, and light weight airborne and space systems.
• Energy efficiency applications in solar panels and high temperature crack-resistant ceramic engine parts.
• Piezoelectric materials that may function over expanded ranges of temperature
• Biomedical and chemical applications such as high strength scaffolding for living tissue, UV protective cosmetics, and high temperature filters