Transfer of flexible arrays of vertically aligned carbon nanofiber electrodes to temperature-sensitive substrates

A method for growing vertically aligned carbon nanofibers (VACNF) in a high temperature direct-current PECVD (plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition) and subsequently transferring these nanofibers to new substrates, was investigated. Carbon nanofibers were partially embedded in a UV-crosslinked epoxy membrane and peeled from their original growth substrates. The membrane, featuring embedded high aspect-ratio nanofibers, was then aligned and mated with an array of individually addressable contact pads. This process provides intact nanofibers that can be transferred to essentially any planar surface, including those that would otherwise by destroyed by the harsh conditions imposed on the substrates during nanofiber synthesis. An investigation of electrochemically active surfaces showed that activity was specialized to the exposed surface area of the carbon nanofibers.