Applications and Potential Uses

One Material – Endless Possibilities

The unique properties of boron nitride nanomaterials led to investigations into various potential applications. These include their use in nanocomposites, as reinforcing agents in materials, in biomedical applications, and as thermal management materials due to their excellent thermal conductivity.

General overview of boron nitride nanomaterials:

Boron nitride nanomaterials have gained significant attention due to their unique properties and diverse range of applications. Here is a brief non-exhaustive overview of their applications:

Boron nitride nanomaterials exhibit excellent thermal conductivity, making them ideal for thermal management applications.

They are used as fillers in polymer composites and thermal interface materials to enhance heat dissipation in electronic devices.

In electronics, boron nitride nanomaterials can be utilized as an insulating material due to its high electrical resistivity.

Its wide bandgap makes it suitable for applications in optoelectronics and photonics.

Piezoelectric functionality

Piezoelectric materials generate small surges of electricity when subject to bending, distortion, heat and pressure. Many of the sensors in robotics and energy harvesting systems in unmanned vehicles and satellites contain piezoelectric based components and mechanical systems. Research has shown that BNNTs have outstanding piezoelectric and electrostrictive properties that will significantly improve materials and structures used for electricity generation, switching and signalling.

Quantum computing

As computer chips have become smaller and more functional in quantum computing, the greatest challenge semiconductor manufacturers have faced is how to deal with the significant heat generated from their process function. The tubular structure of BNNTs, along with the fact they are non-conductive, non-corrosive and completely stable, provides the semiconductor industry with a new material and method for dispersing heat in a revolutionary manner.

The architecture of computer chips, microsensors and other electronic components can include BNNT layering and integration for significantly improved heat transfer and management. Thermal coatings (electronic packaging) can be revolutionized with the inclusion of BNNTs in their composites.

Boron nitride nanomaterials are incorporated into polymer, ceramic, and certain metal matrices to enhance mechanical, thermal, and electrical properties of composites.

Raw BNNTs are clear to smoky white. When included in materials and products such as glass or polycarbonate they are completely transparent. This provides an exciting potential for new grades of ultra-strength glass, polycarbonates, and clear plastics. Applications include bullet-resistant glass, unbreakable polycarbonates, superior helmets and sporting goods, transparent ballistic shields, optical protection and unbreakable electronic screens. As well as strength, these applications will also benefit from significantly improved heat resistance and radiation screening.

Boron nitride nanomaterials have shown promise in biomedical applications, such as drug delivery and imaging due to their biocompatibility.

BNNTs are nontoxic in the human body. They can be engineered into products and treatment protocols for cellular regeneration and extracellular drug delivery.

Current medical research is focusing on cellular scaffolding for nerve and bone tissue regeneration and nanoscale delivery structures and oncology for cancer treatments.

BNNTs can be directionally aligned to promote and support tissue growth which will remain in place without biological rejection or toxic side effects.

BNNTs may open the door to revolutionary advances in rapid healing research.

Boron nitride nanomaterials have been explored as catalysts in various chemical reactions.

Boron nitride nanomaterials can be used as a high-strength material in cutting tools, wear-resistant coatings, and abrasive applications.

The excellent thermal and mechanical properties of boron nitride nano materials make them suitable for aerospace applications, including lightweight structural components, thermal protection, and radiation shielding. Boron nitride nano materials are highly efficient absorbers of thermal neutrons. A key application for boron nitride nano materials is the creation of new and improved radiation shielding materials for aviation, space travel, defence systems, hospital diagnostic equipment and environments, and a variety of radiation-resistant apparel. Boron nitride nano materials provide a breakthrough in defending against both low and high radiation-emitting products and environments.

Boron nitride nanomaterials are investigated for use in energy storage devices, such as batteries and supercapacitors, to improve their performance.

Solar panels have revolutionized renewable energy for everyday households. The next challenge for photovoltaics is developing panels that last longer and maintain optimum energy capture efficiency. Coating organic photovoltaic with BNNT loaded polymers can significantly improve device lifetime and performance.

Lithium-ion batteries have advanced to the point where they cannot be made any smaller or lighter to provide the same energy storage and power delivery. Their charge times and total charge cycles have reached their limits.

BNNTs hold the key to developing a new battery type with superior performance and less than one-quarter of the size/battery mass. Furthermore, the architecture and chemistry of these BNNT composite batteries offer flexible form batteries such as lightweight bendable structures for flexible devices and clothing accessories. Boron nitride nano materials allow for fast charging and superior battery life, heralding the next generation batteries for mobile phones, drones, computers, cars, planes, marine, space, defence.

Enhanced metal alloys and composites with incredible mechanical properties for industrial, military and aerospace Applications.

Research in boron nitride nanomaterials is ongoing, and ongoing developments may uncover additional applications and further enhance their utility in various fields.