Imagine a loudspeaker that...
• does not use a magnet
• is ultra-thin (nanometer thickness)
• does not vibrate
• is transparent
• is flexible (enough to be made into clothing)
• can be integrated into a computer or TV screen
Welcome to the world of the Transparent Carbon Nanotube Thin (CNT) Film Loudspeaker.
"Ok, so how does it work?" I hear you say.
When AC electricity courses through carbon nanotubes, it creates heat. Unlike conventional speakers which bump air molecules to create a sound wave, CNTs don't move; they change temperature. It is this temperature oscillation which bumps the air molecules, thus creating sound. Heat is soooo cool!
New idea? No, the thermophone was invented before 1886 and was upgraded in the 1920's. It worked, but not very well. Right idea, wrong materials.
It took 21st Century carbon nanotubes to make this flag sing. (flag)
Why are we interested?
Well, hot cool technologies are always intereting. But, our interests are more sinister. Did you know... many conventional speakers can also be used as microphones. This has made for some interesting eavesdropping installations for us to discover. If nanotube speakers have the same capability... the future will be even more interesting for us. Can't wait to test one! ~Kevin
