Chapter 4 - Classification of Carbon Nanotubes: 20 Classes of Atomic Structures

Abstract

This chapter presents an extended classification of the atomic lattices of carbon nanotubes into 20 different classes of unique nanostructures with distinct material and mechanical properties. Relations between geometric parameters of carbon nanotubes and the length scales in their atomic lattices have been analyzed by using the scaling analysis. Classification of carbon nanotubes identifies 20 classes of distinct atomic lattice structures with unique structural and material properties. Criteria for the separation of different classes of carbon nanotubes are presented in the framework of the scaling analysis of their atomic structures. Classification of carbon nanotubes describes the process of degeneration of cylindrical symmetry from the nanoscale shells to nanoscale rods through the polygonal structure of nanobeams, and the circumferential buckling of carbon rings. Uniqueness of carbon nanotubes with small radii and their distinct material properties has been examined. Carbon nanotubes may, indeed, behave as nanoscale beams or beam-like shells, as well as thin and thick cylindrical shells. Material and parametric maps for the applicability of different models to distinct classes of carbon nanotubes are presented.