Episode 57 Vantablack The Darkest Material Ever Made (S1E57)
Cocktail Party Chemistry by Jim Mitchell
Episode notes
In this fascinating episode, we explore Vantablack, the darkest material ever created by human engineering. Through detailed molecular analysis, we'll uncover how this extraordinary substance achieves its remarkable light-absorbing properties through densely packed carbon nanotubes that trap photons in a complex maze-like structure. Expert interviews will reveal the intricate manufacturing process behind Vantablack, where carbon nanotubes are grown vertically on surfaces to create a forest of light-absorbing structures. We'll investigate how this material absorbs an astounding 99.96% of visible light, making objects appear as seemingly two-dimensional voids. Our journey will take us through advanced laboratories where researchers are developing new applications for this revolutionary material.
The exploration continues as we examine the gro ...