Vertically aligned CNT-modified electrode

Vertically aligned CNT-modified electrodes are based on a more elaborated technique than other methods, and microscopic images are used to characterize the integrity of this type of electrode. The technique has been applied for the immobilization of enzymes and DNA, and the sensors based on this technique have shown a lower detection limit than those based on other methods. More research activities using this technique, particularly with low density CNT arrays, are expected in the near future because of its sensitivity and versatility. 

The electrodes modified with vertically aligned CNTs have recently received much interest for the purpose of designing CNT-based electrodes and electrochemical sensors. 

Vertically aligned MWCNTs and SWCNTs can be produced through template synthesis methods by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of a gaseous hydrocarbon (e.g., acetylene or ethylene) precursor on metal-coated surfaces " or within porous membranes " or through covalent, electrostatic, or metal-assisted assembly on surfaces. - " Electrodes composed of vertically aligned CNTs offer signal enhancement and improved electron-transfer kinetics compared to many types of electrodes modified with randomly oriented CNTs. - - - For example, carbon-fiber microdisks modified with vertically aligned SWCNTs (often called SWCNT forests ) exhibited over 30 times... 

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