Nanotechnology Based on Diamond and Carbon Nanotubes

摘要

Surface chemistry is critical to the innovative processing required to exploit both diamond and nanotubes for applications such as electronics, MEMS and NEMS. For example, we use a novel etch to machine single-crystal diamond into very thin, large-area sheets. The surface chemistry and physical properties are then manipulated into useable configurations for scientific studies or device formation. Alternatively, the surface chemistry of carbon nanotubes can be exploited to form electronic and mechanical devices, such as resonators for RF electronics, sensors, and other devices. However, their economical fabrication requires assembly techniques which avoid inefficient manipulation of individual nanotubes with a probe microscope. We use dielectrophoresis and electrophoresis to position nanotubes on surfaces and then measure their electrical conductivity. Nanotube functionalization may permit additional control over their orientation on surfaces.