Abstract: Scientific discoveries have often been achieved serendipitously. The case of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) is no exception. In 1991, carbon nanotubes were first reported in a scientifically rigorous and convincible manner [1]. Since CNTs are nanometer-sized materials, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) methods are essential for examining detailed nanostructured materials. Luckly, I have trained myself to use this instrument at its best all the time. It is certain that my extensive experience working with many materials, including nanocarbons, through HRTEM helped me to discover CNTs.
The second subject of the lecture is about photothermoacoustic phenomena of nanomaterials. The phenomenon was reported by A. G. Bell in 1881, but I would like to introduce a new version on the phenomenon.