Fluorescence Visualization of Carbon Nanotubes Using Quenching Effect for Nanomanipulation

The paper demonstrates visualization method of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) in water with fluorescent microscopy through quenching effect that cause a decrease of fluorescent intensity around CNTs. Reversal contrast in fluorescence imaging of the CNTs was observed in fluorescent dye solution. CNTs under a constant excitation light could be observed for more than ten minutes. Dielectrophoretic force was used for CNTs deposition onto electrodes that consist of transparent conductive film. Scanning electron microscope revealed that CNTs of 80 nm in diameter were observed with fluorescent microscopy. The positions of the CNTs tips were observed under optical microscope. It can be applied for biological sensing devices with nanomanipulation.