Ultra-Sensitive Mass Sensors Based on Suspended Carbon Nanotubes
Abstract
This report results from a contract tasking Technion as follows: The primary goal of the proposed research is to take advantage of recent technological breakthroughs in the fields of nanomechanics and nano- and molecular-electronics in order to develop ultra-sensitive mass sensors, capable of detecting the mass of a single small molecule. Such sensors promise a broad range of applications, from ultra-sensitive mass spectrometers that can be used to detect hazardous molecules, through biological applications at the level of a single DNA base-pair, to the study of fundamental questions such as the interaction of a single pair of molecules. The proposed sensors are based on suspended nanomechanical resonators made out of carbon nanotubes, utilizing a unique combination of features that are available only at the nano-scale. The extremely small masses and high frequencies of vibration, the expected high quality factors, the low power consumption, the ability to take advantage of nonlinear behavior, and the ability to combine conventional top-down fabrication with self-assembled nanomaterials and molecular components in a single device, all hold the key to the successful achievement of our goal.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 11, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA524399
Entities
People
- Yuval E. Yaish
Organizations
- Technion – Israel Institute of Technology