Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are one of the most requested nanomaterials in Indian research labs and in industries such as batteries, conductive plastics and coatings. Yet “carbon nanotubes” covers a wide range of products with very different performance and cost. This guide from Aritech Nanomaterials India explains how to choose the right grade.
SWCNT vs MWCNT: the basic difference
Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) are a single rolled graphene sheet, typically 1–2 nm in diameter. They have the best electrical, optical and mechanical properties per gram and are used in transparent conductive films, high-end battery additives, sensors and electronics research.
Multi-wall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) contain several concentric walls, with outer diameters from about 5 nm to over 50 nm. They are more robust, easier to disperse in many matrices and considerably more economical, which makes them the usual choice for conductive plastics, antistatic coatings, cement and composite reinforcement.
| Property | SWCNT | MWCNT |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter | ~1–2 nm | ~5–50+ nm |
| Conductivity at low loading | Highest | Good |
| Typical use | Films, electronics, premium battery additives | Composites, coatings, bulk conductive additives |
| Relative cost | Higher | Lower |
Specifications that matter
- Purity (carbon content): residual catalyst metals and amorphous carbon affect conductivity and can interfere with electrochemistry. Check the purity basis on the COA.
- Outer diameter and length: longer tubes form conductive networks at lower loading; shorter tubes disperse more easily.
- Specific surface area (BET): important for adsorption, catalysis and electrode work.
- Functionalisation: COOH-, OH- or NH2-functionalised CNTs disperse better in water and polar polymers and can bond chemically to a matrix.
- Form: dry powder, or ready-made dispersion in water, NMP or other solvents.
Powder or dispersion?
CNT powders are fluffy and agglomerated; dispersing them properly needs surfactants and high-energy sonication or milling. If you do not have that equipment, or need consistent results for coatings and inks, a CNT dispersion at a defined concentration usually saves time and gives more repeatable films.
What drives CNT prices in India
The price of carbon nanotubes in India depends mainly on wall type (SWCNT costs far more than MWCNT), purity, functionalisation, form (dispersions include processing) and quantity. Research packs of a few grams cost more per gram than semi-bulk orders. Import duties, freight and GST are also part of the landed cost. Aritech quotes in INR with GST invoice so you see the full delivered price.
Handling and safety
Treat CNT powders as respirable fine particles: handle them in a fume hood or ventilated enclosure, wear gloves and suitable respiratory protection, and clean up with a HEPA vacuum or wet wiping rather than dry sweeping. Always follow the Safety Data Sheet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which carbon nanotube is best for lithium-ion battery electrodes?
Both are used. MWCNTs are widely used as conductive additives at moderate loadings, while small amounts of SWCNT can achieve similar conductivity at much lower loading. The choice depends on cost targets and electrode design.
Are functionalised CNTs less conductive?
Functionalisation introduces defects, so conductivity can decrease slightly, but the improved dispersion often gives better overall performance in a composite.
Can I get a COA for carbon nanotubes?
Yes. Aritech can share the batch Certificate of Analysis and Safety Data Sheet with every supply of carbon nanotubes in India.
Shop related materials in India
Browse these Aritech categories and popular products mentioned in this guide:
Popular products:
- MWCNT-Multi Walled Carbon Nanotubes
- Pure SWCNT (Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes)
- Metallic SWCNT (Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes)
- SWCNT (Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes)
- Ultrapure Single Walled Carbon Nanotube
- Carboxyl Functionalized Multi Walled Carbon Nanotubes
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Buy in India from Aritech
Aritech Nanomaterials India (Aritech Chemazone Pvt. Ltd., Kurukshetra) is the authorized Indian distributor of Nanochemazone® Canada. Send your product, quantity and delivery city to sales@chemazone.in or use our quotation form for an INR quotation with GST invoice.
