Nanotube Superfiber Materials: Chapter 1. Introduction to Fiber Materials (Micro and Nano Technologies)

The nature of fiber materials and the differences between conventional fibers and nanoscale fibers are discussed in this chapter. The challenge of carbon nanotube (CNT) yarn fiber fabrication is provided from the perspective of conventional yarn fiber fabrication. Prospects for large-scale manufacturing and the physical properties of yarn are also discussed. This chapter sets the stage for presentation of a compendium of techniques working toward producing superfiber materials.