Strain and pressure sensing using single-walled carbon nanotubes

In this study, single-walled carbon nanotube-based sensors are proposed for measuring strain and pressure at the nanoscale. The principle of sensing is based on the resonant frequency shift of a carbon nanotube resonator when it is subjected to a strain resulting from external loading. The carbon nanotube in a bridged configuration is simulated by atomistic modelling, the molecular structural mechanics method. The resonant frequency shifts are shown to be linearly dependent on the applied axial strain and the applied pressure. The sensitivities of nanotube-based sensors are enhanced with the reduction of tube length and tube diameter, respectively, for axial strain and pressure sensing.