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Persistent Photoconductivity in Chemically-Modified Single Wall Carbon Nanotubes

Journal Article · · Journal of Physical Chemistry B
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/jp046495m· OSTI ID:15020734

Control of the conductivity of single wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) is crucial for the use of carbon nanotubes in molecular electronics. We report a new fundamental characteristic of semiconducting SWNTs ? the persistent photoconductivity of chemically-modified carbon nanotube films. Covalent attachment of Ruthenium(II)-tris(2,2?-bipyridine) Ru(bpy) ??/? to SWNT makes carbon nanotubes sensitive to light absorbed by the ruthenium complex and persistently photoconductive, thus opening opportunities for the selective light control of the conductivity. Illumination of carboxylated SWNTs with ultraviolet or visible light causes a persistent decrease in the conductivity of semiconducting films. Infrared illumination restores conductivity of SWNT films.

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL), Richland, WA (US), Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory (EMSL)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
DOE Contract Number:
AC05-76RL01830
OSTI ID:
15020734
Report Number(s):
PNNL-SA-42781; 6890; KP1301030
Journal Information:
Journal of Physical Chemistry B, Journal Name: Journal of Physical Chemistry B Journal Issue: 52 Vol. 108
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English