Mechanomutable carbon nanotube arrays
by Steven Cranford, Markus J. Buehler
International Journal of Materials and Structural Integrity (IJMSI), Vol. 3, No. 2/3, 2009

Abstract: Here we present atomistic-based multi-scale simulation studies of a magnetically active array of carbon nanotubes to illustrate the concept of mechanomutability. We show that applying external fields, it is possible to change the nanostructure and to induce a desired mechanical response. Direct numerical simulations are reported that illustrate this concept via mechanical testing through nanoindentation. Specifically, the contact stiffness of an array of carbon nanotubes can be changed reversibly from approximately 73 MPa to 910 MPa due to the application of an external field. A hierarchical approach (coarse grain molecular modelling) is implemented to develop a framework that can successfully collaborate atomistic theory and simulations with material synthesis and physical experimentation, and facilitate the progress of novel mechanomutable structural materials.

Online publication date: Mon, 21-Sep-2009

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Materials and Structural Integrity (IJMSI):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com