Abstract: Carbon nanotubes are functionalized in a broadly applicable manner. According to an example embodiment of the present invention, single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are noncovalently functionalized. The functionalized SWNTs are highly versatile, being useful for a variety of implementations, including for the immobilization of molecules, for circuit arrangements, molecular electronics and for molecular sensors. In addition, stable suspensions of functionalized SWNTs in solutions can be achieved, as well as the self-assembly of nanotubes with unperturbed sp2 structures and thus their electronic characteristics.

Abstract: Carbon nanotube devices are manipulated in a manner that is useful for a variety of implementations. According to an example embodiment of the present invention, light (632) is used to photodesorb molecules from a carbon nanotube (620).

Abstract: Methods of forming a microelectronic structure are described. Embodiments of those methods include attaching at least one functional group to a chondroitin sulfate molecule, and then attaching the at least one functional group to a carbon nanotube, wherein the carbon nanotube is made soluble in a solution.

Abstract: Carbon nanotube devices are manipulated in a manner that is useful for a variety of implementations. According to an example embodiment of the present invention, light (632) is used to photodesorb molecules from a carbon nanotube (620).

Abstract: Carbon nanotubes including single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTS) are grown in a manner that facilitates the formation of distinct, individual nanotubes. In one example embodiment of the present invention, SWNT probe-tips for applications such as atomic force microscopy (AFM) are synthesized on silicon pyramids for integration, for example, onto AFM cantilevers. In another implementation, the growth of SWNTs involves dip coating of silicon pyramids with a liquid phase catalyst followed by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) using methane for growing SWNTs. In another implementation, SWNTs are shortened in an inert atmosphere to achieve desirable lengths, for instance, as used in AFM tips. With these approaches, large-scale arrays of nanotubes can be manufactured, for example, using contact printing for catalyst deposition and controllably shortening the nanotubes via an inert discharge.

Abstract: Single-walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) probe-tips for atomic force microscopy (AFM) are realized by direct synthesis of SWNTs on silicon pyramids integrated onto AFM cantilevers. The growth of SWNT tips involves dip coating of silicon pyramids with a liquid phase catalyst followed by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) using methane. Van der Waals interactions between the silicon pyramidal surface and the nanotube ensure proper SWNT orientation. Production of large scale arrays of nanotube probe tips using contact printing and controllably shortening nanotubes in an inert discharge are also described.