Quote:
Originally Posted by jolinar of malkshor
That's what I ment.
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Nope. This makes use of semiconductor and/or optical properties (Ge).
The Theory of the Space Elevator became a reality with Carbon Nanotubes (CNTS), see Brad Edward 1992 (?). CNTs give you 4 times the tensile strength you need for the SE, but thats only if you can connect them. CNTs have amazing electrical and mechanical properties, but because you can't align them, scientists haven't been able to maximize the potential of CNTs. The CNTs you currently see in hockey sticks and golf clubs are CNTs dissolved in some sort of strong graphite or carbon sheet. However, the breakout for CNTs will come when you can align them.
Another challenge for the SE ribbon is that CNTs will be oxidized by the ozone layer; currently, there is a competition held every year by NASA and the Spaceward Foundation and X-PRIZE CUP for teams to compete in the ribbon/cable competition (strength) and power beaming challenge (design the optically powered SE climber).
There is some research being done at the UofA,
www.ece.ualberta.ca/~elevator Its worth checking out. Some of you might recognize a little nerd in that picture
(PS: I think some of you / your companies should make a donation, I hear they need money)