Small Size Molecule Sensor Based on Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes

A new type of sensor constructed by single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) is proposed in this paper, which has the capability to detect existence of small size molecules. The operating principle of the sensor is based on pressure dependence of radial vibration modes of SWCNTs. The performance of the sensor is simulated using elastic shell model. The results show that 5% variation in vibration frequency can be achieved as the inner pressure of the SWCNTs increases from 0 to 0.1 × P_cr (critical buckling pressure).