Large Area, Directionally Aligned Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Films by Self- assembly and Compressed Sliding Methods

摘要

We demonstrate the fabrication of well-aligned array of surface modified single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) and nano silver decorated SWNTs from their surfactant stabilized dispersions by self-assembly on solid substrates in a large area. The shape, rigidity and surface charge of the nanomaterials are found to be the key factors determining the alignment by self-assembly. We also demonstrate preparation of highly transparent conductive thin films (800±50 Ω/□, 95-97 %T at 550 nm) of directionally aligned SWNTs from high concentration aqueous dispersion of SWNT by compressed sliding of a thin liquid film between two glass plates. Evaluation of thin films by SEM, AFM, optical and electrical characterization demonstrates that SWNTs are directionally aligned with high density. Thin films of directionally aligned SWNTs can be used for photovoltaic and other optoelectronic application such as in touch screens, antistatic coatings, flat panel displays, optical communication devices, and solar cells.