Abstract
INTRODUCTION
Among the numerous categories in the evolving field of newly synthesized
nanomaterials, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are perhaps among the most dynamic and
undergoing the most rapid pace of development. The past 5 years have witnessed
relentless growth in research, development, and technological understanding of
these remarkable materials. Universities, small businesses, and start-ups, as
well as large corporations have continued to probe and exploit numerous
commercial possibilities. As a result, the list of product applications is
expanding considerably and is projected to do so well into the future.
The most tangible evidence for growth and interest is reflected first by the
emergence of new CNT industrial producers capable of offering CNTs in
near-commercial scale quantities at more affordable unit pricing. In addition,
after several years of incubation, there is a new breed of university
spin-offs or nanotechnology companies targeting specific application sectors.
Additional evidence of growth is the increasing presence of larger, more
established corporations that recognize the future market opportunities
offered by CNTs. Finally, over the past 5 years there has been phenomenal
growth in patent activity. For instance, in the past 3 years the number of
CNT-related issued patents has almost tripled, reaching close to 600 patents
in 2006 alone. For patents pending, the situation is even more dramatic,
approaching a cumulative backlog close to 4500 patents applications.
In view of the technical momentum behind a growing multibillion dollar
technology investment, and the enormous business potential, this report
provides a timely update on carbon nanotubes-overall status of technology, and
analysis of where the carbon nanotube market will be in the immediate future.
SCOPE OF STUDY
This report contains:
- An overview of the global market for carbon nanotubes, including
definitions and important details about the industry
- Historical and current market data about carbon nanotubes which are then
used to provide detailed forecasts through 2011; it also discusses the market
in terms of commercial sectors and applications for CNTs, including
composites, electronics, energy, and other categories
- Definitions, history, and product methodology for the latest important
technological breakthroughs, as well as a discussion of unique properties of
CNTs, and the different features and challenges of each.
- Profiles of important companies.
METHODOLOGY AND SOURCES OF INFORMATION
This report is primarily derived from the enormous amount of patent and
technical literature relating to CNTs disclosed in the public domain. In
addition, complementary information has also been drawn from the business
community such as company investment news, company profiles, press releases,
and personal telephone interviews with selected companies.
AUTHOR' S CREDENTIALS
John Oliver, the author of this report, is the founder of Innov8 Solutions,
which provides advanced materials consultation services to various clients. He
has over 30 years industrial R&D experience in surface and colloid science
spanning a wide range of materials technology. Primarily, working as a senior
scientist at Xerox Research Centre of Canada, he developed an invaluable
understanding in advanced materials used in digital printing technologies such
as xerography and inkjet printing. More recently through his involvements with
the Alberta Research Council and several local universities, his interests
have evolved into the realm of nanomaterials and microsystems device
integration. He has a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from McGill University, a
BSc degree in Chemistry from Surrey University, U.K. His publications include
more than 40 technical articles, 20 patents, and one technical book.
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