Electrical Properties of Carbon Nanotubes: From Individual to Assemblies
Open Access
- 28 July 2025
- journal article
- review article
- Published by MDPI AG in Nanomaterials
- Vol. 15 (15) , 1165
Abstract
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have attracted intense research interest owing to their unique one-dimensional structure and exceptional properties. However, when individual CNTs are assembled to macrostructures such as films and fibers, their electrical performance often deteriorates significantly. This review offers a comprehensive look at the recent progress in the electrical properties and measurement techniques of CNTs, ranging from individual nanotubes to their assemblies. Firstly, we explore the methods for measuring the electrical properties of individual CNTs, including scanning tunnelling microscopy, electron microscope-based nanoprobes, and measurements using nanodevices. Secondly, we examine how structural characteristics of CNTs (e.g., chirality, diameter, and defects) influence their electrical behaviors. A critical comparison between individual CNTs and their assemblies reveals the difficulties in transferring the electrical properties from nanoscale to bulk materials. Finally, we put forward strategies to boost the electrical conductivity of CNT assemblies and also sketch out future research and development directions.Keywords
Funding Information
- National Natural Science Foundation of China (52130209, 51927803, 52188101, 52372054, and 22003074, 2022YFA1203302, 2021B1212040001, 2022366, JCYJ20240813154813018)
- National Key R&D Program of China (52130209, 51927803, 52188101, 52372054, and 22003074, 2022YFA1203302, 2021B1212040001, 2022366, JCYJ20240813154813018)
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory Program of the Guangdong Science and Technology Department (52130209, 51927803, 52188101, 52372054, and 22003074, 2022YFA1203302, 2021B1212040001, 2022366, JCYJ20240813154813018)
- Youth Innovation Promotion Association CAS (52130209, 51927803, 52188101, 52372054, and 22003074, 2022YFA1203302, 2021B1212040001, 2022366, JCYJ20240813154813018)
- Shenzhen Science and Technology Program (52130209, 51927803, 52188101, 52372054, and 22003074, 2022YFA1203302, 2021B1212040001, 2022366, JCYJ20240813154813018)
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