Visualization of single-walled carbon nanotubes electrical networks by scanning force microspy

In this letter, a method is presented to qualitatively investigate the elec trical connection between single-walled carbon nanotubes and gold electrode s. By applying a time independent bias voltage to the scanning force micros cope tip, there is a clear apparent growth effect in the topography of the electrically connected carbon nanotubes. This effect is induced by the elec trostatic interaction of the tip with the free charges located at the condu cting areas of the surface. This is a general method that could be applied to any molecular conducting nanowire. (C) 2001 American Institute of Physic s.