I found this over at KurzweilAI.net.
MIT researchers have identified a class of chemical molecules that preserve the metallic properties of carbon nanotubes and their near-perfect ability to conduct electricity with little resistance.Using these molecules as handles could overcome fabrication problems and lend the nanotubes new properties for a host of potential applications as detectors, sensors or components in novel optoelectronics.
In another interesting article that rotates on the Florida State University home page is BuckyPaper research. Read it and let your imagination do the rest.
A material 10 times lighter than steel—but 250 times stronger—with
amazing properties that make it highly conductive of heat and
electricity. Sounds like something out of a science fiction novel. But
"buckypaper" is fact, not fiction, and an FSU research group is working
to develop real-world applications for the extraordinary material.
This is really cool to hear about!
I wonder (for LiftPort and those building the space elevator) if they could use this to power the lifters instead via laser from Earth? (or maybe use it as an extra way to power up the lifters).