Inexpensive two-tip nanomanipulator for a SEM

One of the major obstacles for nanotechnology progress is the lack of effective tools and processes to build, characterize and manipulate nanosystems. Here, we present the development of a low-cost nanomanipulator with two probe tips that operates inside a scanning electron microscope. This manipulation system is based on parallel-guiding-plate-spring mechanism and inexpensive materials. The movements are divided on coarse and fine displacements, which are based on picomotors and piezoelectric elements, respectively. The nanomanipulator was applied to transport and manipulate nanotubes and semiconductor nanowires. The probe tips have independent electrical contacts, so that electrical two point measurements can be performed in situ. The system is expected to be a valuable tool for research laboratories working with nanostructures. (C) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.