Carbon nanotubes used by 17th century Damascus

In summary, carbon nanotubes were used by 17th century Damascus to create high-quality steel known as Damascus steel. These nanotubes were found in the raw material used to make the steel, which was sourced from India. The presence of carbon nanotubes in the steel gave it unique properties such as extreme hardness and flexibility, making it highly prized and sought after by warriors and swordsmiths alike. The techniques used to create this steel have been lost over time, but the discovery of carbon nanotubes in the Damascus steel has shed light on the advanced knowledge and technology possessed by ancient civilizations.
  • #1
Esoteric
http://www.rsc.org/chemistryworld/News/2006/November/15110602.asp

Carbon nanotubes are no longer the proud boast of 21st century materials scientists. It appears their discovery was unwittingly pre-empted by mediaeval Muslim sword-smiths whose tough Damascus blades taught the Crusaders the true meaning of cold steel when they fought over the Holy Land.

Peter Paufler and colleagues at Dresden's Technical University discovered carbon nanotubes in the microstructure of a 17th century Damascus sabre. Intriguingly, the nanotubes could have encapsulated iron-carbide nanowires that might give clues to the mechanical strength and sharpness of these swords.
 
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Thanks for sharing.
 

What are carbon nanotubes and how were they used by 17th century Damascus?

Carbon nanotubes are cylindrical structures made of carbon atoms, with diameters on the nanometer scale. In the 17th century, Damascus artisans used carbon nanotubes to create a type of steel known as Damascus steel, which was renowned for its strength and sharpness.

How did 17th century Damascus artisans create carbon nanotubes?

The exact method used by 17th century Damascus artisans to create carbon nanotubes is not fully understood. Some theories suggest that they may have used a type of crucible steel known as wootz steel, which contained trace amounts of carbon nanotubes.

What properties of carbon nanotubes make them ideal for use in Damascus steel?

Carbon nanotubes have incredibly high tensile strength and are also very lightweight. This makes them ideal for reinforcing the steel, making it stronger and more durable.

Can carbon nanotubes still be found in 17th century Damascus steel artifacts?

Yes, carbon nanotubes have been found in samples of 17th century Damascus steel artifacts through modern testing methods. However, due to the high temperatures involved in forging the steel, many of the carbon nanotubes may have been destroyed in the process.

How has the use of carbon nanotubes in 17th century Damascus steel influenced modern technology?

The use of carbon nanotubes in 17th century Damascus steel has sparked interest in modern research and development of carbon nanotubes for various applications, such as in electronics, medicine, and aerospace. The strength and durability of Damascus steel continues to inspire new advancements in materials science today.

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