Electron transport in single-walled carbon nanotubes

Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are emerging as an important new class of electronic materials. Both metallic and semiconducting SWNTs have electrical properties that rival or exceed the best metals or semiconductors known. In this article, we review recent transport and scanning probe experiments that investigate the electrical properties of SWNTs. We address the fundamental scattering mechanisms in SWNTs, both in linear response and at high bias. We also discuss the nature and properties of contacts to SWNTs. Finally, we discuss device performance issues and potential applications in electronics and sensing.