Simulation of Fundamental Properties of CNT- and GNR-Metal Interconnects for Development of New Nanosensor Systems

Abstract

Cluster approach based on the multiple scattering theory formalism, realistic analytical and coherent potentials, as well as effective medium approximation (EMA-CPA), can be effectively used for nano-sized systems modeling. Major attention is paid now to applications of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) with various morphology which possess unique physical properties in nanoelectronics, e.g., contacts of CNTs or (GNRs) with other conducting elements of a nanocircuit, which can be promising candidates for interconnects in high-speed electronics. The main problems solving for resistance C-Me junctions with metal particles appear due to the influence of chirality effects in the interconnects of single-wall (SW) and multi-wall (MW) CNTs, single-layer (SL) and multi-layer (ML) GNRs with the fitting metals (Me = Ni, Cu, Ag, Pd, Pt, Au) for the predefined carbon system geometry. Using the models of ‘liquid metal’ and ‘effective bonds’ developed in the framework of the presented approach and Landauer theory, we can predict resistivity properties for the considered interconnects. We have also developed the model of the inter-wall interaction inside MW CNTs, which demonstrates possible ‘radial current’ losses. CNT- and GNR- Metal interconnects in FET-type nanodevices provide nanosensoring possibilities for local physical (mechanical), chemical and biochemical influences of external medium. At the same time, due to high concentrations of dangling bonds CNT- and GNR- Metal interconnects as interfaces are also considered as electrically, magnetically and chemically sensitive elements for novel nanosensor devices.