Scientists in Germany say they have developed a new type of nanotube that uses palladium and other precious metals to exhibit a new range of properties.

Nanotechnologists at Weizmann Institute say they have combined palladium, gold, silver and other nanoparticles to formulate a new type of nanotube.

The nanotubes are tiny cylindrical structures measured in millionths of a millimetre, first discovered in 1991, which can boast unusually exaggerated properties.

The particular palladium-based tubes in question are said to demonstrate unique electrical, optical and other properties.

Indeed, the researchers say their findings may form the basis for future nanosensors, catalysts and chemistry-on-a-chip systems.

Professor Israel Rubinstein, Dr Alexander Vaskevich, postdoctoral associate Dr Michal Lahav and doctoral student Tali Sehayek, all worked on the paper, which was published in Angewandte Chemie.

'We were amazed when we discovered the beautifully formed tubes,' commented Professor Rubinstein.

'The construction of nanotubes out of nanoparticles is unprecedented.'

The team is now working on a number of combinations to deliver a selection of different types of nanotube, including gold/palladium and copper-coated gold tubes.