Thin, conductive, carbon nanotube networks over transparent substrates by electrophoretic deposition

Abstract

A new method was developed for deposition of carbon nanotube networks (CNTNs) over transparent and electrically non-conductive substrates. This method allows the deposition of functionalized or surfactant-stabilized carbon nanotubes dispersed in water. The nanotube films can be applied over complex geometries, on non-conductive rigid or flexible substrates and over large areas in a continuous manner. The carbon nanotube films are deposited by electrophoretic deposition (EPD) using a thin film layer of conductive metal, such as aluminium or titanium. The metal layer oxidizes during the EPD, becoming transparent. The carbon nanotube films can be easily patterned using this technique.