Liquid crystal–carbon nanotube dispersions

Parallel alignment of nanotubes can be obtained by dispersion in a self-organizing anisotropic fluid such as a nematic liquid crystal. Exploiting the cooperative reorientation of liquid crystals, the overall direction of the nanotube alignment can be controlled both statically and dynamically by the application of external fields. These can be electric, magnetic, mechanic, or even optic in nature. Employing multiwall as well as single-wall carbon nanotubes, we show their parallel alignment along a uniform liquid crystal director field and electrically verify their reorientation behavior for two complementary geometries. These demonstrate electrically controlled carbon nanotube OFF–ON and ON–OFF switches. Further applicational potential will be outlined.