Patterning of [2.2]paracyclophane derivative modified single-walled carbon nanotubes through grid-assisted deposition

We describe a method to selectively position single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) modified with a [2.2]paracyclophane derivative (PCP) containing conjugated acetylenic triple bonds in the linear side-chain on fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO)/glass substrates. The method exploits the use of metallic grids as masks put on electrically biased FTO surfaces with PCP moieties positioned in between. The application of the voltage forces the PCP moieties to repel the holes filling the grid bars while PCP modified SWNTs were patterned as the holes.