MRSEC Seminar

Inorganic nanotubes (INT) and fullerene-like structures (IF): science and applications

Reshef Tenne

Department of Materials and Interfaces
Weizmann Institute, Rehovot 76100, Israel

Thursday, September 25, 2:00 pm

Tech K140
2145 Sheridan Rd., Evanston IL

In this presentation a progress report, focused mainly on the results obtained in our lab will be presented. While the synthesis and study of IF materials and INT from layered metal dichalcogenides, like WS₂ and MoS₂ remain a major challenge, some progress with the synthesis of IF and INT structures from other compounds have been realized. Intercalation and doping of these nanostructures, which lends itself to interesting electronic properties, has been realized, too. New kinds of inorganic nanotubes, which have been synthesized by us and by other groups, will be described.

IF-MS₂ (M=W,Mo, etc) were shown to be superior solid lubricant in the form of an additive to various lubricating fluids/greases and for various self-lubricating coating. Some new potential applications for these and related materials will be discussed in the fields high toughness nanocomposites; catalysis; rechargeable batteries. Selective optical coatings which reflect less than 3% of the light over 300-1100 nm will be presented. Such coatings may find numerous applications, among others, in capturing the solar light for thermal energy generation. To capitalize on these opportunities, a production facility for up to 300 kg/day of IF-WS₂ in various qualities is being erected and will be in operation in a few months. Large scale sales have started recently.

Host: Professor Tamar Seideman, Chemistry