Tuning the Field Emission Properties of Patterned Carbon Nanotube Films

Abstract

Tuning the electron emission properties of films containing carbon nanotubes is demonstrated. Microcontact printing is used to pattern silicon substrates with catalyst, which facilitates the growth of the carbon nanotubes by the chemical vapor deposition of acetylene. The catalyst is applied in liquid form to an elastomeric stamp prior to transfer to the substrate, and varying the concentration of the catalyst on the solution (“the ink”) directly influences the density of nanotubes on the patterned film.