Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are grown as a mixture of one third semiconducting and two thirds metallic. The diameter and the degree of twist of the carbon nanotube determine its electronic behavior (metallic or semiconducting). Due to quantum confinement, the bandgaps of the single walled CNTs decrease when their diameter increases. Thus in addition to their excellent mechanical strength and high thermal and chemical tolerances, they can access the entire visible spectrum as well as the near-infrared up to 2500 nm. 

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Devices using singular CNTs have been extensively demonstrated; however, bulk deposition to fabricate large scale devices has only recently become possible as selective nanotube sorting processes have improved and allowed isolation of bulk CNTs of high electronic uniformity. A major obstacle still impeding reliable device operation is the limited control possible over the solid-state assembly and processing of the nanotubes. Controlling the alignment, orientation, packing density, and the overall nanostructuring is essential in all large surface area applications. 

 

Our objectives in this topic include:

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• Explore various deposition processes that influence the packing and assembly of the nanomaterials aiming to create homogeneous micro and nano structures. 

• Maximize the potential of morphology control and nanostructuring in solution processed thin films and study the evolution of their optical, electrical and mechanical properties.

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