The production of continuous fibers made purely of carbon nanotubes has paved the way for new macro‐scale applications which utilize the superior properties of individual carbon nanotubes. These wire‐like macroscopic assemblies of carbon nanotubes were recognized to have a potential to be used in electrical wiring. Carbon nanotube wiring may be extremely light and mechanically stronger and more efficient in transferring high frequency signals than any conventional conducting material, being cost‐effective simultaneously. However, transfer of the unique properties of individual CNTs to the macro‐scale proves to be quite challenging. This Feature Article gives an overview of the potential of using carbon nanotube fibers as next generation wiring, state of the art developments in this field, and goals to be achieved before carbon nanotubes may be transformed into competitive products.

Carbon nanotubes, with their unique physical properties, have the potential to outperform conventionally used electrical wiring metals. Any improvement in this area of technology would be of great importance to industry, the economy, and the environment, as the global need for electrical energy and its effi cient transfer and conversion rapidly increases. Carbon nanotube fi bers, which are assemblies made purely of carbon nanotubes, can uniquely be used in macroscopic electrical applications including electrical wires and devices where the operation is enabled by these conductors. This paper presents details of the working prototype of an electrical machine, a transformer, where conventional copper wires have been replaced with conducting wires made purely of carbon nanotube fi bers.

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