Purdue Research Foundation

Matthew Ralph Maschmann

Timothy David Sands

Timothy Scott Fisher

Aaron Daniel Franklin

Rashid Bashir

In one embodiment, SWNTs are synthesized from an embedded catalyst in a modified porous anodic alumina (PAA) template. Pd is electrodeposited into the template to form nanowires that grow from an underlying conductive layer beneath the PAA and extend to the initiation sites of the SWNTs within each pore. Individual vertical channels of SWNTs are created, each with a vertical Pd nanowire back contact. Further Pd deposition results in annular Pd nanoparticles that form on portions of SWNTs extending onto the PAA surface. Two-terminal electrical characteristics produce linear I-V relationships, indicating ohmic contact in the devices.

Contact metallization of carbon nanotubes

A modified porous anodic alumina template (PAA) containing a thin CNT catalyst layer directly embedded into the pore walls. CNT synthesis using the template selectively catalyzes SWNTs and DWNTs from the embedded catalyst layer to the top PAA surface, creating a vertical CNT channel within the pores. Subsequent processing allows for easy contact metallization and adaptable functionalization of the CNTs and template for a myriad of applications.

Growing community of inventors

Chandler, AZ, United States of America

Matthew Ralph Maschmann