Telescoping Nanotube Arrays

University Of Cincinnati Main Campus, Cincinnati OH

Investigators

Abstract

Abstract 0510823 PIs: Mark Schulz, Vesselin Shanov, Alex Zettl University Cincinneti This project is to develop carbon nanotube arrays that have telescoping and electrochemical transduction properties that will enable many new applications including displacement sensors, force actuators, power generators, needles for drug injection, and linear motors. Aligned multi-wall carbon nanotube arrays will be synthesized on a silicon substrate using chemical vapor deposition. The array will be stabilized, the ends of the nanotubes opened, and electrodes will be applied. The transduction properties of the arrays will then be characterized using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, electron microscopy, and a laser displacement sensor. The arrays will overcome the problems of working with single nanotubes including aligning nanotubes, applying electrodes, and allowing ion exchange while simultaneously transferring load through the nanotubes. The telescoping nature of individual multi-wall carbon nanotubes will be studied. Methods will be developed whereby the tips of nanotubes can be reliably opened and the protruding core tubes mechanically fastened. The opening/attachment methods to be explored include electrical breakdown, chemical-mechanical polishing, and acid treatment. The approaches developed for opening/attachment and telescoping of individual nanotubes will be applied to arrays of nanotubes. The nanotube arrays are expected to become a new smart material with unique transduction properties. This is a project supported under sensor initiative NSF 05-526.