Dolphins inspire carbon nanotube research

Inspired with the speed at which dolphins swim through the water compared to other aquatic life, Jonghwan Suhr of the University of Nevada, Reno, decided to mimic the dolphin’s skin using nanotechnology in order to make objects move more efficiently through the air. In his research, Suhr, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering, and his colleagues developed new carbon nanotube composite materials with increased strength and damping qualities over conventional materials. Generally, the nanotubes are in a hollow cylindrical shape with nanoscale diameters and microscopic lengths. The new nanotube surface material Suhr’s research team created, continuous carbon nanotube-polymer composites, will reduce drag force by increasing aerodynamic efficiency. The technology may also be used on wind turbine blades, enhancing the efficiency and reducing noise associated with the renewable energy machines.