Carbon Nanotubes in Art Conservation

Ever since their discovery in 1991 carbon nanotubes (CNT) have inspired scientists and developers of future technologies. This is due to the unique material properties of the tiny nanoscale tubes composed of pure carbon. CNTs are the strongest and stiffest material known in the world and the only material that may be eligible to design a space elevator which would not break by its own weight. They feature an electrical conductivity similar to copper, a thermal conductivity similar to diamond, and a modulus more than hundred times greater than steel. Many companies are working intensively on the development of CNT technology and applications. New catalysts have been developed which are capable of forming the tiny and thin-walled carbon nanotubes without any impurities. Based on these new industrial processes, cost efficient mass production has become viable. Main fields of application, today, are the use as filler and reinforcing agent in polymers and other materials, leading to electrical conductivity and highest mechanical strength. Perhaps one of the greatest technological potentials of CNTs at the present time lies in their electrical properties. CNTs are not only extremely light and robust, but can also efficiently heat up surfaces of any size utmost evenly with very rapid thermal response which can guarantee ultra-steady temperatures over large surface areas as well as short heating and cooling times. In order to use these properties in art conservation, the IMAT-project1-3 has been launched. The project is supposed to create a series of innovative and highly accurate mild and flexible heating devices for the conservation of various kinds of cultural heritage. In the presentation CNTs and state-of-the-art CNT technology will be introduced to the audience with strong focus on application potentials in art conservation. As an example the IMAT-project will be discussed in more detail.