Atomic Force and Scanning Tunneling Microscopy Studies of Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes

Abstract: In this diploma work I present the first experimental investigations of carbon nanotubes at Karlstads University. Raw nanotube powder of single walled carbon nanotubes have been dispersed primarily in 1,2-dichloroethane. The solutions have been spincoated on Au(111) substrates. In order to determine the solubility of carbon nanotubes in the solution the samples have been investigated in an atomic force microscope. Single walled carbon nanotubes deposited on a Au(111) substrate have been investigated in a scanning tunneling microscope. Atomically resolved STM images of single walled carbon nanotubes were obtained. Scanning tunneling spectroscopy spectra was taken on a tube revealing its chirality. The measured data from the nanotubes was compared to calculations and confirmed their properties. Dry direct contact transfers of individual single walled carbon nanotubes have been done as a first step when trying to deposit carbon nanotubes on reactive surfaces in ultra-high vacuum. Individual nanotubes were found, confirming the success of dry direct contact transfer.