Molecular transistor driving of nanoscale actuators from differential amplifier circuits compatible with carbon nanotube sensors and transducers

Abstract

A carbon nanotube electronic circuit utilizing a differential amplifier is implemented on a single carbon nanotube. Field effect transistors are formed from a first group of electrical conductors in contact with the carbon nanotube and a second group of electrical conductors insulated from, but exerting electric fields on, the carbon nanotube form the gates of the field effect transistors. A signal input circuit has a first input portion and a second input portion. A first field effect transistor electrically responsive to a first incoming signal is formed on the first input portion. A carbon nanotube actuator having electrical terminals and responsive to electrical conditions is an electrical load. A current source, connected to the signal input circuit, is formed on the carbon nanotube from one or more second field effect transistors. The electrical load is connected to the signal input circuit, and the signal input circuit and current source together form a differential amplifier to operate the actuator responsive to the incoming signal.