SGER: In-situ Investigation of Fluid Processes in a Carbon Nanotube

University Of Illinois At Chicago, Chicago IL

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract CTS-0084272 Y. Gogotsi, University of Illinois at Chicago The processes which govern fluid processes in pipes are well understood for diameters in the range of micrometers and above. As the diameters diminish ( e.g. in the range of a few nanometers), the role of surface tension and capillarity is has been seen to change, as well as their dependence on material properties. Thus, the expected promise of Carbon nanotubes in technological applications is in urgent need of a well documented basic understanding of such forces, especially since no consistent experimental data have been collected so far. The PI has obtained preliminary results in the determination of the liquid/vapor distribution in nanotubes, with the help of transmission electron spectroscopy. On that basis , he offers to develop an experimental program which will explore as thoroughly as possible the various aspects of phase interfacing in a number of nanotube situations. The special case of the newly developed closed nanotubes will be examined . Such work should offer a precious set of data for the elaboration of a model based on precise experimental observations.