Carbon, having 6 electrons, shows sp1
, sp2
and sp3
hybridization to produce
novel allotropes. Since the recent discoveries of fullerenes in 1985, carbon nanotubes
in 1991 and graphene in 2004, there is immense regard for the amazing physical and
chemical properties of carbon nanomaterials, promoting the growth of techniques for
large-scale manufacturing. Carbon nanomaterials have been the subject of extensive
scientific study all around the world due to their important structural dimensions and
excellent chemical, mechanical, electrical, optical, magnetic, catalytic and thermal
properties different from bulk counterparts. The carbon nanomaterials with 0, 1, 2 and
3 dimensions (carbon black, nanodiamonds, fullerenes, carbon quantum dots, carbon
nano-horns, carbon nanofibers, carbon nanotubes and graphene) have shown such
built-in properties that are easily exploitable in cutting edge technology for a numerous
application. Applications in technology, medicine, environment and agriculture are all
part of the ever-expanding commercial use of carbon nanomaterials. In this chapter,
brief history and recent advancements in carbon nanomaterials specifically fullerenes,
carbon nanotubes, graphene, carbon quantum dots, and nanodiamonds have been
thoroughly reviewed. Along with their methods of synthesis, future prospects and
opportunities in a variety of industries have also been discussed. Significant
applications of different carbon materials in important areas have been highlighted. A
summary of toxic effects of carbon nanomaterials on biological systems has also been
given to support wise usage and careful handling.
Keywords: Arc-discharge method, Biosensing, Bioimaging, Buckyballs, Carbon nanotubes, Carbon quantum dots, Carbon graphene dots, Chemical vapor deposition, Drug delivery, Electrochemical methods, Fullerenes, Graphene, Graphite, Heat transfer, Hydrogen storage, Laser ablation method, Nanodiamonds, Nanomaterial, Nanofluid, Photoluminescent.
