AFM manipulation of carbon nanotubes: realization of ultra-fine nanoelectrodes

We have investigated the possibility of using carbon nanotubes as flexible, mobile electrical probes able to electrically contact nanometre-scaled objects. Configurations with metal electrodes evaporated on top of multi-, few- and single-wall carbon nanotubes have been studied. Scanning probe manipulation was used to create nano-mechanical switches by first cutting the various tubes, and then moving the parts back into electrical contact. We found multiwall tubes to be best suited as mobile probes, mainly due to their insensitivity to mechanical deformation. Finally, we present an example where the scanning probe manipulation technique has been used to electrically connect two carbon nanotubes to a 7 nm gold particle.