Nanotube condom
When attached to AFM tips, carbon nanotubes can be used for ultrahigh-resolution imaging and manipulation at the nanoscale. The patented invention presents several advantages in using SWNTs for AFM imaging.
The polymer coating provides a chemically inert and electrically insulating outer layer and mechanically stabilises the attached nanotube, which enables imaging in liquids without the need for an intervening adhesive. Further, the coating can be etched away to expose the tip end of the nanotube, resulting in a highly conductive nanoelectrode. The nanoelectrode can be used for more precise sensing or triggering of local bioelectrochemical reactions in liquids.
US company Arrowhead Research funded the research. Caltech has filed for patent protection on the invention, and Arrowhead has the right to obtain an exclusive license.
