Prof Windle will present an update on his exciting nanotechnology research, which is focused on the creation and exploitation of carbon nanostructures in materials science. The science ranges from reactor thermodynamics and kinetics through issues of orientation and condensation of aerogels to an understanding of the physics of the exceptional properties of the fibre. In addition to their mechanical potential, several projects address the electrical properties of nanotubes, including interaction with electromagnetic radiation, for applications as diverse as power transmission, electromagnetic shielding and cancer therapies.