Fundamental of Carbon-Based Nanomaterials: Graphite, Graphene, and Carbon Nanotube (CNT)

Materials with nanoscale dimensions are known as nanomaterials. As compared to bulk counterparts, nanomaterials have outstanding features. Large surface atoms and relatively high surface area are the reason behind their exceptional character. Carbon-based nanomaterials are gaining importance nowadays owing to excellent mechanical, electrical, thermal, chemical, and optical properties. The materials included in this category are graphite, graphene, carbon nanotubes, and fullerene. These materials are significant in physics world and have attracted scientific community through magnificent properties, unique structure, and new applications. In this chapter we are focusing on structure, properties, and applications of carbon-based nanomaterials especially graphite, graphene, and carbon nanotubes. These materials have great potential of fulfilling the demand of various fields like medical, nuclear industry, electrical industry, energy storage devices, etc.