Bilayer graphene kirigami

Abstract

Since the experimental demonstration of the kirigami technique for graphene in 2015, several studies have been conducted exploring its diverse impacts in the properties and behavior of graphene. However, because most of the studies have focused on monolayer graphene, the implications of a bilayer graphene kirigami (BGK) remain poorly understood, especially regarding its mechanical response. Here, we employ a newly developed machine learning potential available in the literature to study the mechanical properties and characteristics of BGK by using molecular simulations. The effects of different cutting and stacking patterns are revealed, showing a highly stretchable material with capacity of enhancing the maximum strain by a factor of eight as compared to pristine graphene. During deformation, a large out-of-plane displacement is evidenced, along with a topological modification at the ripping interface composed of eight-membered rings. Also, a distinct structure formation is found, described as horizontally-aligned arrays of interconnected nanotubes, with capability of being employed in environments that require increased compression resistance, and further potential to serve as building blocks for complex 3D structures.