Recent advances and perspective on boron nitride nanotubes: From synthesis to applications

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) are emerging nanomaterials with analogous structures and similarly impressive mechanical properties to carbon nanotubes (CNTs), but unique chemistry and complimentary multifunctional properties, including higher thermal stability, electrical insulation, optical transparency, neutron absorption capability, and piezoelectricity. Over the past decade, advances in synthesis have made BNNTs more broadly accessible to the nanomaterials and other research communities, removing a major barrier to their utilization and research. Therefore, the field is poised to grow rapidly and see the emergence of BNNT applications ranging from electronics to aerospace materials. A key challenge, that is being gradually overcome, is the development of manufacturing processes to make neat BNNT materials. This overview highlights the history and current status of the field, providing both an introduction to this Focus Issue-BNNTs: Synthesis to Applications-as well as a perspective on advances, challenges, and opportunities for this emerging material.

Automated summary

Boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) have similar mechanical properties to carbon nanotubes (CNTs), but possess unique chemistry and multifunctional properties. Advances in synthesis have made BNNTs more accessible for research, and the field is expected to see rapid growth and applications in various fields. The development of manufacturing processes for pure BNNT materials remains a key challenge, but holds great potential for the future.