A method of producing a branched carbon nanotube (CNT) is disclosed. The
branched CNT is used with an atomic force microscope having a cantilever
and a tip and that is able to measure a surface of a substrate as well as
an undercut feature of the substrate that protrudes from the surface. A
catalytic material is deposited onto the tip of the microscope, and the
catalytic material is subjected to chemical vapor deposition. This
initiates growth of a primary branch of the branched carbon nanotube such
that the primary branch extends from the tip. A secondary branch is then
introduced to extend from the primary branch and produce the branched
carbon nanotube. The primary branch interacts with the surface of the
substrate and the secondary branch interacts with the undercut feature.
