In Situ Tailoring and Manipulation of Carbon Nanotubes

Nano-manipulation: Multi-walled carbon nanotubes are manipulated in situ using an ultrahigh vacuum transmission electron microscopy/scanning tunneling microscopy method. This method allows for the “peeling” of internal layers of the nanotube, producing low-mass, high-diameter nanotubes, suitable for application as nanoparticle probes or as nanobalances. The precision of the technique makes it possible to reinsert the peeling layers, forming a cylinder/piston-type system (see image).