This volume is a result of the Nanotube '99 Workshop, held in late July 1999. It is the most up-to-date compendium representing the state of the art in the rapidly developing field of nanotubes. An important focus is on the relative merits of the various techniques used to synthesize nanotubes of carbon and other materials. Another important issue addressed is the effect of synthesis conditions on the multitude of morphologies that have by now been observed, and the characterization of the structures. Important advances are reported in the understanding of mechanical and chemical properties of nanotubes, including their potential use for hydrogen storage and nano-manipulators in micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS). The unusual electronic properties of nanotubes, which seem to attract most attention in the field, are represented accordingly, alongside the first likely commercial application of nanotubes in high-efficiency flat-panel displays.