Vertically aligned multi-walled carbon nanotube growth on platinum electrodes for bio-impedance applications

Abstract

A technological process for growing multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the platinum electrodes of devices used for bio-sensing and cell recording and stimulation is presented. In order to ensure the biocompatibility of the devices, platinum instead of other materials like iron, cobalt or nickel was used as CNT catalyst. SEM and HRTEM characterization show growth of high density of vertically aligned multi-walled CNTs on the electrodes. Electrical characterization and impedance measurements on the CNT-modified electrodes validate the fabrication process. The presence of amorphous carbon indicates that an improvement of the electrodes characteristic would be achieved after introducing purification strategies.