Application of host-guest chemistry in nanotube-based device fabrication:: Photochemically controlled immobilization of azobenzene nanotubes on patterned α-CD monolayer/Au substrates via molecular recognition

Azobenzene-functionalized nanotubes recognized and attached onto well-defined complementary regions of thiolated α-CD SAM/Au substrates via host-guest molecular recognition. The binding between the azobenzene nanotubes and the α-CD SAM/Au substrates was controlled by UV irradiation. The light-induced attachment-detachment of the azobenzene nanotubes on the α-CD SAMs was reversible. Some of the nanotubes were capable of interconnecting two Au substrates. This smart building block may be applied to build photoactive nanometer-sized mechanical switches in electronics. Copyright © 2003 American Chemical Society.