Abstract: A robust, stand-alone load cell comprises a block of aligned carbon nanotubes with parallel electrodes on opposing sides of the block and an electrical circuit connected between the electrodes for measuring the electrical resistance of the block. The nanotubes are preferably aligned perpendicular to the electrodes. Carbon nanotube-based load cells may be incorporated into a wafer assembly for characterizing semiconductor processing equipment. Such a wafer assembly includes two parallel wafers with a plurality of carbon nanotube load cells positioned between and attached to both wafers. The load cells are independently electrically connected to a device which monitors and records the resistivity of the load cell.

Abstract: A system for receiving, analyzing and communicating results of sensing chemical and/or physical parameter values, using wireless transmission of the data. Presence or absence of one or more of a group of selected chemicals in a gas or vapor is determined, using suitably functionalized carbon nanostructures that are exposed to the gas. One or more physical parameter values, such as temperature, vapor pressure, relative humidity and distance from a reference location, are also sensed for the gas, using nanostructures and/or microstructures. All parameter values are transmitted wirelessly to a data processing site or to a control site, using an interleaving pattern for data received from different sensor groups, using I.E.E.E. 802.11 or 802.15 protocol, for example. Methods for estimating chemical concentration are discussed.

Abstract: The invention relates to nanoparticles of noble metals, having a controlled microstructure which leads to the appearance of ferromagnetic behaviour in said nanoparticles, thereby enabling the use of very small magnets (<5 nm) in a range in which standard ferromagnetic metals behave as superparamagnetic entitles (disappearance of hysteresis cycle). The inventive nanoparticles can be used, for example, to reduce the dimensions in magnetic recordings, as well as in biomedicine as tools for biomolecule recognition, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging, drug-release control or hypothermia treatments.

Abstract: Water soluble InAs(ZnCdS) semiconductor nanocrystals with bright and stable emission in the near infrared (NIR) wavelength range have been prepared. The NIR semiconductor nanocrystals can be functionalized to enable imaging of specific cellular proteins. In addition, the utility of the NIR region for in vivo biological imaging is clearly demonstrated by the superior ability of InAs(ZnCdS) semiconductor nanocrystals to image tumor vasculature.

Abstract: A sensor device is provided for determining the presence and/or amount of at least one component in a fluid. The sensor device comprises at least one sensor unit, the at least one sensor unit comprising at least one elongated nanostructure and a dielectric material surrounding the at least one elongated nanostructure. The dielectric material is such that it is selectively permeable for one of the at least one component and is capable of sensing the component permeated through the dielectric material. The sensor device according to preferred embodiments shows good sensitivity and good mechanical strength. The present invention furthermore provides a method for manufacturing such a sensor device and a method for determining the presence and/or amount of at least one component in a fluid using such a sensor device.

Abstract: Method and system for detecting presence of biomolecules in a selected subset, or in each of several selected subsets, in a fluid. Each of an array of two or more carbon nanotubes (“CNTs”) is connected at a first CNT end to one or more electronics devices, each of which senses a selected electrochemical signal that is generated when a target biomolecule in the selected subset becomes attached to a functionalized second end of the CNT, which is covalently bonded with a probe molecule. This approach indicates when target biomolecules in the selected subset are present and indicates presence or absence of target biomolecules in two or more selected subsets. Alternatively, presence of absence of an analyte can be detected.

Abstract: An organic/inorganic composite is provided. The organic/inorganic composite comprises a silicon (Si) substrate formed with nanorods or nanoholes and three-dimensional networks of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) grown horizontally in parallel and suspended between the adjacent nanorods or inside the nanoholes. In the organic/inorganic composite, metal catalysts can be uniformly formed on the nanorods or inside the nanoholes, irrespective of the height of the nanorods or the depth of the nanoholes and the shape and aspect ratio of the nanorods or nanoholes. In addition, the carbon nanotubes grow in a three-dimensional network structure directly over the entire surface of the nanorods or the whole inner surface of the nanoholes and are directly connected to the base electrodes. With this configuration, the three-dimensional carbon nanotube networks are highly dense per unit volume, and the organic/inorganic composite is highly electrically conductive and has a large surface area.

Abstract: The invention relates to a multimetallic nanoshell sensor which comprises a core that is less conductive that a first metallic layer and having a catalytically active second metallic layer partially or completely surrounding the first metallic layer. The sensor can be used in any surface enhanced spectroscopic applications.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for preparing nucleic acid nanotubes using DNA origami techniques are described, which provide for nanotubes of predictable and uniform length. The nucleic acid nanotubes thus formed are suitable as liquid crystal preparations enabling liquid-crystal NMR spectroscopy of proteins solubilized in detergent.

Abstract: Disclosed is a composite thin film that can be expanded in surface area of an organic compound film having a surface, on which specific molecules are adsorbed, can increase the number of reactive sites per single layer of the organic compound film, and can be produced with a low number of laminations, and is excellent in productivity. The composite thin film is furthermore excellent in applicability in enabling reactive sites to be modified with a functional molecule to enable application to sensors of high sensitivity and molecular devices, etc., of improved function. The composite thin film is formed on a surface of a support and is characterized in that the composite thin film has at least one layer of each of the following films of (a) and (b) on the surface of the support. That is, (a) a microparticle film formed by adsorption of microparticles, and (b) an organic compound film formed by adsorption of an organic compound.

Abstract: A platform able to vary a plasma resonance frequency applies to a prism of a conventional surface plasma resonance system and comprises at least one platform and a plurality of metal lines. The platform is a plate-like structure having two faces—a detection face and a connection face. The metal lines are arranged on the detection face. Each metal line has a width of 20-500nm and a thickness of 20-100nm. The spacing between two adjacent metal lines is 50-1000nm. The prism of the conventional surface plasma resonance technology is an application of the refraction technology. The optical grating technology is another application of the diffraction technology. However, the present invention is different from the abovementioned two technologies. The present invention increases the wavelength range of the absorption spectrum to the mid-infrared ray to promote the detection application of the surface plasma resonance technology.

Abstract: The design and synthesis of a matrix nanocomposite containing amino carbon nanotubes used as a functionalized sensing layer for carbon dioxide detection by means acoustic wave sensing devices, e.g., SAW/BAW devices. These sensing materials contain a type of amino carbon nanotubes (single walled or multi-walled) and a polymer (or other compounds) which are sensitive to carbon dioxide in the acoustic wave sensing device based gas sensors. The sensitivity of the matrix consisting of the amino carbon nanotubes and a polymer (or other compounds) is ensured by the presence of amino groups which can react at room temperature with CO2 in a reversible process to form carbamates.

Abstract: A 3-terminal electronic device includes: a control electrode; a first electrode and a second electrode; and an active layer that is provided between the first electrode and the second electrode and is provided to be opposed to the control electrode via an insulating layer. The active layer includes a collection of nanosheets. When it is assumed that the nanosheets have an average size LS and the first electrode and the second electrode have an interval D therebetween, LS/D?10 is satisfied.

Abstract: Fullerenes, when irradiated with electromagnetic radiation, generate acoustic waves. A photoacoustic tomography method using a material comprising fullerenes is disclosed that includes irradiating the material with a radiation beam such as a laser. The resultant photoacoustic effect produced by the material is detected by at least one detector. A photoacoustic tomography system using a material comprising fullerenes is also described.

Abstract: Systems and methods related to optical nanosensors comprising photoluminescent nanostructures are generally described. Generally, the nanosensors comprise a photoluminescent nanostructure and a polymer that interacts with the photoluminescent nanostructure. In some cases, the interaction between the polymer and the nanostructure can be non-covalent (e.g., via van der Waals interactions). The nanosensors comprising a polymer and a photoluminescent nanostructure may be particularly useful in determining the presence and/or concentration of relatively small molecules, in some embodiments. In addition, in some instances the nanosensors may be capable of determining relatively low concentrations of analytes, in some cases determining as little as a single molecule. In some embodiments, the interaction between the analyte and the nanosensor (e.g.

Abstract: A biomolecule analyzing system (10) that provides an expeditious, accurate and reliable method for analyzing a biomolecule (150). The system (10) includes two substrates (12,28) each having an inner edge (14,30), an outer edge (16,32) and an inner surfaces (20,36) from where extends a multiplicity of cilia (22). To the inner edges (14,30) is attached an input tube (82) that is also attached to a biomolecule sample reservoir (90). To the outer edges (16,32) is attached an output tube (106) that is also attached to a sample deposit chamber (120). The tubes (82,106) include a plurality of conductive plates (98) that are applied an electrical charge that causes the biomolecule (150) to traverse through the tubes (82,106). When the biomolecule (150) passes through the cilia (22) signals are produced that are applied to a pair of image capturing devices (40,50).

Abstract: A multi-touch detecting method is adapted for detecting locations of touched points on a touch panel including first and second conductive films, and includes following steps. First measuring points of the first conductive film distributed along X-axis of a Cartesian plane are scanned, and x-components are determined accordingly. Second measuring points of the second conductive film distributed along Y-axis of the Cartesian plane are scanned, and y-components are determined accordingly. A first voltage is applied to the first conductive film, and A second voltage is applied to at least one of the second measuring points with the location on the Y-axis adjacent to or overlapping one of the y-components. Voltages at the first measuring points with the locations on the X-axis adjacent to or overlapping the x-components are measured sequentially and one of the y-components and one of the x-components are outputted.

Abstract: An electronic system for selectively detecting and identifying a plurality of chemical species, which comprises an array of nanostructure sensing devices, is disclosed. Within the array, there are at least two different selectivities for sensing among the nanostructure sensing devices. Methods for fabricating the electronic system are also disclosed. The methods involve modifying nanostructures within the devices to have different selectivity for sensing chemical species. Modification can involve chemical, electrochemical, and self-limiting point defect reactions. Reactants for these reactions can be supplied using a bath method or a chemical jet method. Methods for using the arrays of nanostructure sensing devices to detect and identify a plurality of chemical species are also provided.

Abstract: A large number of properties of nanostructures depend on their size, shape and many other parameters. As the size of a nanostructure decreases, there is a rapid change in many properties. When the nanostructure is completely destroyed, those properties essentially disappear. Systems based on changes in properties of nanostructures due to the destruction of nanostructures are proposed. The systems can be used for monitoring the total exposure to organic, inorganic, organometallic and biological compounds and agents using analytical methods.

Abstract: Small-signal and other circuit design techniques realized by carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNFETs) to create analog electronics for analog signal handling, analog signal processing, and conversions between analog signals and digital signals. As the CNFETs exist and operate at nanoscale, they can be readily collocated or integrated into carbon nanotube sensing and transducing systems. Such collocation and integration is at, or adequately near, nanoscale.

Abstract: Provided are fabrication, characterization and application of a nanodisk electrode, a nanopore electrode and a nanopore membrane. These three nanostructures share common fabrication steps. In one embodiment, the fabrication of a disk electrode involves sealing a sharpened internal signal transduction element (“ISTE”) into a substrate, followed by polishing of the substrate until a nanometer-sized disk of the ISTE is exposed. The fabrication of a nanopore electrode is accomplished by etching the nanodisk electrode to create a pore in the substrate, with the remaining ISTE comprising the pore base. Complete removal of the ISTE yields a nanopore membrane, in which a conical shaped pore is embedded in a thin membrane of the substrate.

Abstract: Small-signal and other circuit design techniques realized by carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNFETs) to create analog electronics for analog signal handling, analog signal processing, and conversions between analog signals and digital signals. As the CNFETs exist and operate at nanoscale, they can be readily collocated or integrated into carbon nanotube sensing and transducing systems. The resulting collocation and integration may be at, or adequately near, nanoscale. One embodiment implements an analog differential amplifier having transistors which include carbon nanotubes, electrical contacts, and insulating material. The differential amplifier may be used in isolation or as an element of an operational amplifier. Negative feedback may be used to implement a wide range of analog signal processing functions, and to provide conversions among analog and digital signals. In some cases, an entire analog differential amplifier is implemented with a single carbon nanotube.

Abstract: A device and method are disclosed for detecting biomolecules. More specifically, by measuring the change in the electrical properties of a complex between a probe and carbon nanotubes, a non-label detection is achieved, capable of a rapid, sensitive and electrical detection of the presence and concentration of biomolecules in a sample solution.

Abstract: A structure includes a substantially non-conductive frame having an exterior surface. The structure defines a plurality of passages that open to the exterior surface. Mesoporous material is disposed in the plurality of passages and is supported therein by the frame. In a method for making a mesoporous nanocrystalline titania hybrid material, a templating agent, an acid, and a titania precursor is mixed into a template liquid. A frame that defines a plurality of passages is placed into the template liquid. A solvent is evaporated from the template liquid, thereby forming a titania gel encapsulating the templating agent. The gel is heated to remove substantially the templating agent from the non-conductive frame and the titania, thereby leaving a mesoporous titania material.

Abstract: A system for the detection of nitric oxide in a gas sample includes a converter for oxidation of nitric oxide to nitrogen dioxide, a nitrogen dioxide sensor including nanostructures and a filtering device to remove at least carbon dioxide from the gas sample positioned upstream of the converter. The nitrogen dioxide sensor can, for example, include a recognition layer on the nanostructures adapted to enhance sensitivity to nitrogen dioxide. A method for detecting nitric oxide in exhaled breath includes detecting nitric oxide in the exhaled breath using a nitric oxide sensor including nanostructures. Another method for detecting nitric oxide in exhaled breath includes filtering the breath to remove at least carbon dioxide from the breath, oxidizing nitric oxide in the exhaled breath to nitrogen dioxide and detecting the nitrogen dioxide using a nitrogen dioxide sensor including nanostructures.

Abstract: In an actuator including at least one active electrode disposed in an electrolyte and comprising at least two webs of an electrically conductive material with a plurality of geometrically anisotropic nanoparticles disposed thereon and oriented uni-directionally in a preferential direction with an electrically conductive connection between the nanoparticles and the webs and a potential difference with respect to ground can be applied to the active electrode by a voltage or current source, the nanoparticles are connected in each case to two webs and the connections are material-interlocking.

Abstract: The present invention relates to near-field scanning optical microscopy (NSOM) and near-field/far-field scanning microscopy methods, systems and devices that permit the imaging of biological samples, including biological samples or structures that are smaller than the wavelength of light. In one embodiment, the present invention permits the production of multi-spectral, polarimetric, near-field microscopy systems that can achieve a spatial resolution of less than 100 nanometers. In another embodiment, the present invention permits the production of a multifunctional, multi-spectral, polarimetric, near-field/far-field microscopy that can achieve enhanced sub-surface and in-depth imaging of biological samples. In still another embodiment, the present invention relates to the use of polar molecules as new optical contrast agents for imaging applications (e.g., cancer detection).

Abstract: A system for selectively determining at least two analytes, comprising at least one resonant sensor circuit comprising a sensing material that predictably affects the resonant complex impedance response of a sensor electrode, wherein the sensing material having at least two material properties that change upon exposure to two or more analytes; and a processor that generates a multivariate sensor response pattern that is based at least in part on a change in the two material properties of the sensing material and a sensing device and methods adapted to detect an analyte using the same sensor system.

Abstract: An system and method for exploring geophysical formations at great depths below the surface of the earth. In order to explore the formation, nanorobots with a size less than 500 nanometers are inserted into the formation. The nanorobots propel through the formation, analyzing fluids and conditions as each moves through the formation. The nanorobots can communicate with a machine on the surface via a series of receivers and transmitters located in the wellbore. The machine on the surface is able to combine and analyze the data from the nanorobots to create a three dimensional map of the formation. The map shows the locations of pathways through the formation, pockets of hydrocarbons within the formation, and the boundaries of the formation.

Abstract: An effective sensor for indicating exposure to a toxic gas includes a non-conductive, inert substrate such as glass or polyethylene, a two-dimensional film of nanoparticles of a conductive metal such as silver or copper on the substrate and an electrode connected to each end of the film. When an electrical current passes through the film and the sensor is exposed to a toxic gas, changes in the electrical resistance of the film provides an indication of the presence of the toxic gas.

Abstract: A Manufacturing Execution System (MES) and related methods of monitoring a glycol manufacturing processes are disclosed herein. The methods are useful to provide a plurality of analysis to the glycol manufacturing process. Consequently, the manufacturing execution system and methods provide a means to perform validation and quality manufacturing on an integrated level whereby glycol manufacturers can achieve data and product integrity and ultimately minimize cost.

Abstract: A sensor including at least one sensor probe including a pair of electrodes; a vertically aligned nanotube disposed between the pair of electrodes; optionally a piezoelectric polymer on the nanotube; and optionally, a field source for generating a field, the field source operatively connected to the pair of electrodes; whereby when the sensor probe is contacted, a change in the field occurs or electricity is generated. Methods of using the sensors are also described.

Abstract: A carbon nanotube is described, to which quantum dots are attached through non-covalent bonding via linking molecules bonded to the quantum dots. A method of visualizing a carbon nanotube is also described, wherein quantum dots are attached to the carbon nanotube through non-covalent bonding via linking molecules bonded to the quantum dots, and then the quantum dots are made emit light. This invention allows carbon nanotubes, even those in a wet condition, to be visualized by a simple fluorescent optical microscope. Thereby, the difficulties on preparing specimens and the need of sophisticated instruments can be reduced. This invention also exhibits great potential for the application of carbon nanotubes under a wet condition.

Abstract: A surface comprises a surface member and a plurality of components thereon. Such heterogenous surface compositions and configurations, related systems and methods for sensing particle or analyte interaction therewith can selectively and/or differentially interact with a range of particles/analytes, in lieu of specific molecular sensor-analyte interactions for each particle.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a LPR sensing device and a LPR sensing system comprising a LPR sensing device, a light source, a detecting unit and a processing unit. The LPR sensing device comprises a sensing substrate and a noble metal nanoparticle layer, and the noble metal nanoparticle layer is disposed on the sensing substrate and has noble metal nanoparticles with diameter of 2˜12 nm. An analyte adsorbed on the surface of the noble metal nanoparticle layer generates a dielectric environmental change, resulting in a change of the LPR band. Comparing noble metal nanoparticles with different particle diameters, small noble metal nanoparticles provide better sensing sensitivity to a compound with a small molecular weight.

Abstract: A nanorobot module with a measurement device for the measurement of spatial surface properties with a measurement range in the centimetre range and a resolution in the nanometre range, that can be arranged in a vacuum chamber, for example the vacuum chamber of a microscope. Along with this integration of the nanorobot module into a vacuum chamber, the disclosure further relates to the automation of the module in the chamber system, in particular the connection of the controller of the nanorobot system and the chamber system by the provision of an interface between both systems. Finally, the disclosure relates to a mechatronic exchange adapter for the flexible securing of nanorobot modules within a vacuum chamber, in particular the disclosure relates to an exchange adapter, which preferably in one process electrically connects a nanorobot module and mechanically secures it so that it is guided with high precision and without play.

Abstract: Optical and optoelectronic devices and methods of making same. Under one aspect, an optical device includes an integrated circuit an array of conductive regions; and an optically sensitive material over at least a portion of the integrated circuit and in electrical communication with at least one conductive region of the array of conductive regions. Under another aspect, a method of forming a nanocrystalline film includes fabricating a plurality of nanocrystals having a plurality of first ligands attached to their outer surfaces; exchanging the first ligands for second ligands of different chemical composition than the first ligands; forming a film of the ligand-exchanged nanocrystals; removing the second ligands; and fusing the cores of adjacent nanocrystals in the film to form an electrical network of fused nanocrystals.

Abstract: In an exemplary configuration, a system for structural health monitoring is provided. The system includes a battery-less nano-PWAS device, the device comprising an array of nano-PWAS transducers and a tag antenna.

Abstract: The invention relates to processes for the production and elements (components) with a nanostructure (2; 4, 4a) for improving the optical behavior of components and devices and/or for improving the behavior of sensors by enlarging the active surface area. The nanostructure (2) is produced in a self-masking fashion by means of RIE etching and its material composition can be modified and it can be provided with suitable cover layers.

Abstract: An electrophoretic fluid separation structure (100) comprising a substrate (101) and a plurality of vertical nanowires (102) grown on the substrate (101).

Abstract: The invention provides for electromagnetic transmission and reception used in detecting relative changes associated with nano devices existing within an oil reservoir. The system enables monitoring of the relative movement of the nano devices in the oil and/or water over a given area based on the incremental or relative changes of the intensity of the reflections over time. In one embodiment, a source of electromagnetic energy from an array of antennae transmitting immediately in the far field recharges a power source embedded in the nano devices. In another embodiment, the return signals from the nano devices maps the morphology of ensembles of nano devices. In yet another embodiment the transmission controls the movement of the nano devices and controls the function preformed by the nano devices relative to effecting changes in the well to improve production of oil.

Abstract: Carbon nanotube columns each comprising carbon nanotubes can be utilized as electrically conductive contact probes. The columns can be grown, and parameters of a process for growing the columns can be varied while the columns grow to vary mechanical characteristics of the columns along the growth length of the columns. Metal can then be deposited inside and/or on the outside of the columns, which can enhance the electrical conductivity of the columns. The metalized columns can be coupled to terminals of a wiring substrate. Contact tips can be formed at or attached to ends of the columns. The wiring substrate can be combined with other electronic components to form an electrical apparatus in which the carbon nanotube columns can function as contact probes.

Abstract: Methods of interfacing nanomaterials used to monitor and execute the pharmaceutical manufacturing process are disclosed herein. The nanomaterials are useful to provide a plurality of analysis to the manufacturing process. Consequently, the methods provide a means to perform validation and quality manufacturing on an integrated level whereby pharmaceutical manufacturers can achieve data and product integrity and ultimately minimize cost.

Abstract: A method of producing polymer/nanotube composites where the density and position of the nanotubes (11) within the composite ca be controlled. Carbon nanotubes (11) are grown from organometallic micropatterns. These periodic nanotube arrays are then incorporated into a polymer matrix (7) by deposing a curable polymer film on the as-grown tubes. This controlled method of producing free-standing nanotube/polymer composite films may be used to form nanosensor (3) which provide information regarding a physical condition of a material (20), such as an airplane chassis or wing, in contact with the nanosensor (3).

Abstract: Provided are the preparation, characterization, and application of a nanopore membrane device. The nanopore device comprises a thin membrane prepared from glass, fused silica, ceramics or quartz, containing one or more nanopores ranging from about 2 nm to about 500 nm. The nanopore is prepared by a template method using sharpened metal wires and the size of the pore opening can be controlled during fabrication by an electrical feedback circuit. The nanopore device is particularly useful for counting and analyzing nanoparticles of radius less than 400 nm.

Abstract: The invention relates to an electromechanical device comprising a package and at least one component surface-mounted in the package, characterized in that it also comprises at least one nanotube-based interface providing a mechanical link for vibratory and thermal filtering between said component and the package. Advantageously, the nanotube-based interface can also serve as an electrical and/or thermal interface with the electrical contacts with which the package is equipped.

Abstract: A liquid crystal display screen includes an upper component, a bottom component and a liquid crystal layer. The upper component includes a touch panel. The touch panel includes a first conductive layer. The conductive layer includes a transparent carbon nanotube structure, and the transparent carbon nanotube structure includes a plurality of metallic carbon nanotubes. The bottom component includes a thin film transistor panel. The liquid crystal layer is located between the upper component and the lower component.

Abstract: Methods and systems for determining if one or more target molecules are present in a gas, by exposing a functionalized carbon nanostructure (CNS) to the gas and measuring an electrical parameter value EPV(n) associated with each of N CNS sub-arrays. In a first embodiment, a most-probable concentration value C(opt) is estimated, and an error value, depending upon differences between the measured values EPV(n) and corresponding values EPV(n;C(opt)) is computed. If the error value is less than a first error threshold value, the system interprets this as indicating that the target molecule is present in a concentration C?C(opt). A second embodiment uses extensive statistical and vector space analysis to estimate target molecule concentration.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods of preparing and using doped MWNT electrodes, sensors and field-effect transistors. Devices incorporating doped MWNT electrodes, sensors and field-effect transistors are also disclosed. Also disclosed are devices comprising nanostructured electrodes and methods for measuring free chlorine in an aqueous environment. Also disclosed are diamond coated electrodes for use in electrochemical applications.

Abstract: A nanowire composite and a method of preparing the nanowire composite comprise a template having a plurality of hollow channels, nanowires formed within the respective channels of the template, and a functional element formed by removing a portion of the template so that one or more of the nanowires formed within the portion of the template are exposed. Since the nanowire composite can be prepared in a simple manner at low costs and can be miniaturized, the nanowire composite finds application in resonators and a variety of sensors.