What Are Boron Nitride Nanotubes?

The Next Generation Nanomaterial

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are a type of nanotube composed of boron and nitrogen atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice structure. It is a molecular combination in a rectangular polymorph structural form (around one-thousandth the thickness of a human hair) and provide a nanoscale structural reinforcement in a variety of materials.

This form enables them to be many times stronger, more flexible, thermally conductive, heat resistant, and more durable than any metal or carbon fibre. With their longitudinally strong and transversely supple characteristics, they are also transparent.

They share similarities with carbon nanotubes (CNTs) but have distinct properties that make them attractive for various applications. CNTs share a similar structure as BNNTs, however, they cannot withstand high temperatures, are toxic, inflexible, electrically conductive, and break down in oxidizing environments.

A brief history of boron nitride nanotubes

1. Theoretical Predictions (1994)

Theoretical work on boron nitride nanotubes dates back to the mid-1990s. In 1994, theoretical studies by Rubio, Corkill, and Cohen predicted that boron nitride could form nanotubes similar to carbon nanotubes.

2. First Synthesis (1995)

The first experimental synthesis of boron nitride nanotubes was reported in the year 1995 by Chopra et. al. They used arc discharge techniques, similar to those used for carbon nano tubes, to produce boron nitride nanotubes.

3. Alternative Synthesis Methods

Over the years, researchers developed alternative methods for synthesizing BNNTs, thermal plasma method, such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and ball milling. These methods allowed for better control over the properties and quality of the nano tubes. Subsequent research focused on studying the structural and mechanical properties of BNNTs. It was found that BNNTs possess excellent thermal and chemical stability, high mechanical strength, and electrical insulating properties. These characteristics make them suitable for a range of applications.

4. BNNT Technology Pty Ltd founded in 2018

BNNTTL is a spin off from Deakin University – Institute for Frontier Materials (IFM).

5. BNNT Technology Pty Ltd achieves kilogram-scale production (2021)

High volume BNNT patented manufacturing process developed by world-leading scientists at Deakin University Australia

6. Ongoing Research BNNT Technology Pty Ltd (Present)

Research on boron nitride nanomaterials continues to advance, exploring new synthesis methods, understanding their properties more deeply, and expanding their applications. Ongoing efforts focus on scaling up production, reducing cost, and finding new ways to integrate BNNTs into commercial products.

We are on an exciting journey to better understand their amazing characteristics and benefits when atomically integrated with base materials such as metals, alloys, glass, fibres, plastics and other (advanced) polymers.

Ongoing R&D programs in collaboration with universities in different countries, government and industry.

One Material – Endless Possibilities