AVS 50th International Symposium
    Homeland Security Topical Conference Wednesday Sessions
       Session HS+MM-WeA

Paper HS+MM-WeA9
Chemical Warfare Agent Detection Using Random Networks of Single-Wall Carbon Nanotubes

Wednesday, November 5, 2003, 4:40 pm, Room 309

Session: Detection of Explosives and Other Chemicals for Homeland Security
Presenter: E.S. Snow, Naval Research Laboratory
Authors: E.S. Snow, Naval Research Laboratory
J.P. Novak, Naval Research Laboratory
E.J. Houser, Naval Research Laboratory
Correspondent: Click to Email
Single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) are unique structures in that they are composed entirely of surface atoms while exhibiting transport properties superior to single crystalline Si. These features make them an ideal candidate for a new class of molecular sensors. We report the use of random networks of SWCNTs as a sensor for chemical warfare agents. Random networks of SWCNTs are used to provide high-yield sensor fabrication using conventional microlithographic techniques. Molecular adsorption of chemical agents onto the nanotube networks results in a charge transfer that manifests itself as a change in the network conductance. In such devices sub-part-per-billion sensitivity to agent simulants is easily achieved. We discuss these results and our approach to functionalizing the networks to provide additional sensitivity, selectivity against potential interferents, and a high degree of chemical specificity. Arrays of such functionalized devices should provide highly sensitive and specific electronic detection of a wide range of chemical warfare agents and other toxic chemicals.