Hybrid EM/circuit modeling for carbon nanotubes based interconnects

In this paper, carbon nanotube models for high-frequency interconnect applications are studied applying electromagnetic and circuit approaches. A first validation of both models gives a better understanding of carbon nanotubes behaviors in RF. The complex surface impedance used in this paper is derived from Hanson´s conductivity in order to take in consideration the quantum capacitance and all other components existing in nano-scale world. A study of CNT inter-coupling is then possible within a transmission line configuration above a ground plane. In future devices, nano-interconnect based on CNTs will be gathered within bundles, a better comprehension of coupling inside and around this bundle allows developing complex CNT bundle models. A RF device approach using CNT bundle models is brought at the end of this paper.