Scientists develop carbon?s ?copy?

CARBON HAS deformed itself to extend life of metals. Sixth most common element in universe found in food, clothing and cosmetics is helping human being in its amorphous form.

CARBON HAS deformed itself to extend life of metals. Sixth most common element in universe found in food, clothing and cosmetics is helping human being in its amorphous form.

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Scientists at the Indian Institute of Sciences (IISc), Bangalore, have developed the non-crystalline (amorphous) form of carbon to give a protective shield to metals.

Unlike other options, this one gives extra life and equivalent shine to metal it is applied to. A similar conductivity, as that in its original form, makes this carbon suitable for the industry using metal.

“There are two types of amorphous carbon where one is conducting and the other non-conducting. We have worked on conducting carbon so as to give the industry the best commercial use,” said Prof SV Subramanyam, professor in the department of physics at the IISc.

Prof Subramanyam said process for patenting this new form of carbon had begun and soon people in the industry would be disclosed about its application with various metals.

“Apart from giving longevity to engines, a corrosion resistant coating can be given to pipes that supply drinking water. This can be of use to save people from diseases that come with rusted pipes,” he said.

About preparing this misshaped carbon form, Prof Subramanyam said a network of atom of any material is formed if it is exposed to adequate temperature and atmosphere pressure in inert state.

The scientist said at present, the petroleum industry used to nitrate the pipes which were expensive. A beautiful form of carbon all set to make steel strengthened in the coming days.