Laser-induced rapid carbon nanotube micro-actuators

Abstract

Laser-induced rapid actuating microstructures made of aligned carbon nanotube (CNT) arrays are achieved. Desirable operational features of the CNT micro-actuators include low laser power activation, rapid response, elastic and reversible motion, and robust durability. Experimental evidence suggests a laser-induced electrostatic interaction mechanism as the primary cause of the optomechanical phenomenon. Oscillating CNT micro-actuators up to 40 kHz are achieved by driving them with a modulated laser beam. The micro-actuators are utilized in exerting a sub-micro-Newton force to bend nanowires. Electrical coupling of the micro-actuator and feasibilities of multiactuator systems made entirely out of CNTs are also demonstrated. © 2010 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH &. Co. KGaA.