The physical and optical properties of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) offer unique opportunities within the research areas of imaging and sensing. We are developing composite microfibers to immobilize brightly fluorescent SWCNTs within flexible and porous textiles. The microfibrous materials are used in the construction of smart bandages that can detect the presence of infections. 
Increasing the thermal stability of SWCNTs is desirable in high-temperature sensing applications. We are examining the manner in which oligonucleotide wrapping of SWCNTs can significantly increase their thermal stability by several hundred degrees Celsius.