| The experiments in this thesis present a foundational study of a nanoelectromechanical system that demonstrates high potential for use in a wide range of applications. This system incorporates an individual carbon nanotube as a torsional spring for a lithographically defined, nanometer-scale metal mass suspended above a substrate.; Fabrication and operation of such a device is discussed. Investigations are then performed to elucidate a variety of material and device characteristics. First, the shear (twisting) modulus of an individual singlewall carbon nanotube is measured. This is done through a combination of direct electrostatic actuation and computer modeling. Next, the theoretical dependence of singlewall carbon nanotube transport properties on torsional strain is confirmed experimentally. Finally, the device is used as a self-sensing resonant oscillator. The characteristics of such a device and the implications of all results are discussed, as are future directions. |
