Researchers invent nanowire "paper"
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Updated: April 17, 2007
The researchers say the "paper" could be used for armor, flame-retardant fabric, bacteria filters, oil cracking, controlled drug release, decomposition of pollutants and chemical warfare agents.
The two-dimensional "paper" can be shaped into three-dimensional devices. It can be folded, bent and cut, or used as a filter, but does not react with other chemicals, and can be heated up to 700 degrees Celsius.
The membranes are white and resemble regular paper. However, the material can be cast into different three-dimensional shapes, with different functions. The researchers have created tubes, bowls and cups using this process. These three-dimensional hollow objects can be manipulated by hand and trimmed with scissors, the researchers report.
The university has applied for patent protection on the process used to create the free-standing membranes for filtration and catalysis, and is looking for industrial partners to license and commercialize various applications of the nanopaper technology.
(Copyright 2006 Newsroom Solutions, LLC)
