From theory to application of carbon nanotubes

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are a crystalline cylindrical carbon tubes with lengths of several micrometers and diameter of several nanometers. By utilizing a CNT as the probe of an atomic force microscope, it is possible to measure shapes faithfully with high reproducibility over a long time frame.

Electron-microscope image of CNT probe

A 1: At present, our research group is composed of researchers specializing in chemistry and physics. Although I am the most junior of these researchers, we are performing our research without strict hierarchical relationships. As for my research theme, I have been involved in developing CNT probes since entering the company. Although a CNT is a fine carbon needle with a diameter around 20 nm, controlling its shape is a high-priority issue. In response to that issue, I am presently working on establishing a method for controlling the shape of a CNT to the order of nanometers. In contrast to my student days, I now have the task of incorporating a theoretical system established by research into a practical technology; I feel that alone is difficult, challenging work.

A 2: Since CNTs always return to their original shape no matter how many times they are bent, and have a stiffness like diamond in addition to being very small, they make outstanding raw materials with high strength. My present work can be said to be development of products that utilize the strength of CNTs. As for me, however, what really make CNTs appealing is that even though CNTs possess extremely good thermal and electrical properties, CNT products are almost nonexistent. In other words, since CNT materials include components that still require breakthroughs, I think development of CNT products holds a big attraction.

A 3: As for various people engaged in research in disregard of business, accomplishments such as publishing articles for linking with one's future career are necessary. At Hitachi, we have created a kind of dojo (in Japanese, traditionally, a place for practice of martial arts) that values the scholarly value of one's own research. For that reason, many distinguished researchers from all around the world are gathered there. As a result, both the feeling that "I want to launch products that I developed myself onto the world market" and the feeling that "I want to do work of scientific value" can be combined. What's more, I chose to work in nanotechnology because it is a relatively new and fascinating field of research.