NaturalNano, Inc., a U.S.-based company, says that naturally-occurring clay nanotubes could be a low-cost alternative to carbon nanotubes as delivery systems for pesticides, cosmetics, and metals. According to NaturalNano’s website, the clay nanotubes are harvested from halloysite clay, which is used to make porcelain, and are composed of aluminum, silicon, hydrogen, and oxygen. Unlike carbon nanotubes, wh ich are created in a laboratory for up to US$250 per gram, clay nanotubes are mined from the ground and are expected to be marketed at under US$20 per pound. The tubes can be filled with perfume, pesticides, or any other material that requires controlled release. NaturalNano has not announced when the clay nanotubes will be released, but they are planning their initial public offering for the end of the year.
