Controlled Growth of Carbon, Boron Nitride, and Zinc Oxide Nanotubes

• Published in: IEEE sensors journal Vol. 8; no. 6; pp. 922 - 929
• Main Authors: Moscatello, J.P., Jiesheng Wang, Ulmen, B., Mensah, S.L., Ming Xie, Shun Wu, Pandey, A., Chee Huei Lee, Prasad, A., Kayastha, V.K., Yoke Khin Yap
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York IEEE 01-06-2008; The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Inc. (IEEE)
• Subjects: Biological materials; Biomedical transducers; Boron; Boron nitride; Carbon; Carbon nanotubes; Catalysis; Catalysts; chemical transducers; Chemicals; Detection; Electrons; Hydrocarbons; Nanobioscience; Nanoscale devices; Nanostructure; Nanostructures; nanotechnology; Nanotubes; Zinc oxide
• ISSN: 1530-437X; 1558-1748
• DOI: 10.1109/JSEN.2008.923906

Nanotubes represent a unique class of materials in which all atoms are located near the surface. Since electrons flowing through nanotubes are confined near the surface, nanotubes are attractive for sensing biological and chemical molecules. In addition, their tubular structures enable nanofluidic devices that are useful for novel sensing applications. In this paper, we will discuss current applications and the latest advancements on the growth of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs), and ZnO nanotubes (ZnONTs). First, CNT growth is highly controlled by regulating the effective catalysts and the dissociative adsorption of the hydrocarbon molecules during chemical-vapor deposition growth. Second, we have achieved low temperature growth of vertically aligned BNNTs at 600 degC , the first success of growing pure BNNTs directly on substrates at temperatures about half of those reported so far. Finally, we have developed an original approach for growing ZnONTs without catalyst or template. Robust, controllable growth techniques for nanotubes are necessary in order to fully realize their sensing potential.