| abstract |
Methods of forming a dispersion of nanostructures, a distribution of carbon nanotubes, and an array of nanostructure devices are described. The methods involve providing a substrate, applying growth promoter to at least a portion of the substrate, exposing the substrate and the growth promoter to a plasma, and forming a dispersion of nanostructures from the growth promoter after the plasma exposure. Exposing the substrate and the growth promoter to a plasma disperses at least a portion of the growth promoter as distinct, isolated growth promoter areas over the substrate. Preferably, the growth promoter areas are nanoparticles between about 1 nm and 50 nm in size and they are dispersed approximately uniformly over the substrate. An array of nanostructure devices is also described. The array of devices includes a substrate, a dispersion of nanostructures disposed discontinuously on the substrate and an array of electrodes in contact with the dispersion of nanostructures. The nanostructures may be nanotubes or nanowires. Preferably, the dispersion of nanostructures is approximately planar and substantially in contact with the substrate. Regions containing nanostructures can provide electrical communication between two or more electrodes. |