The chemistry of single-walled nanotubes

Abstract

The unique structural, electronic, and mechanical properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) have opened the doors to developments that push the limits of science. These advancements not only further scientific discovery, but also result in the development of everyday practical applications. These applications vary from singlemolecule sensors to nano-scaled transistors to multi-modal biosensors. This article focuses on three distinct developments made as a result of recent advances in spectroscopy of SWNTs. The first system examines the use of SWNTs for molecular detection using near-infrared light to produce tunable fluorescent sensors that are highly photostable. The second system examines the use of a 4-hydroxybenzene diazonium reagent to sort SWNTs based on electronic structure to create on-chip modifications of nano-electronic devices. The third system characterizes nanotube networks for such applications as flexible electronics, exploring the irreversible binding of adsorbates onto nanotube networks using electrical transport and Raman spectroscopy.