Evaluation of shear modulus and buckling loads of SWCNT's using numerical and analytical techniques

Abstract

With the introduction of carbon nanotubes, their fascinating features, including outstanding strength, exceptional stiffness, low density, and structural integrity at the nanoscale, became evident. These qualities generated excitement for a variety of technological applications. Over the last ten years, an evolving understanding of carbon nanotube mechanics has been shaped by a combination of experimental validation, the refutation of theoretical predictions, and the application of various computer simulation techniques. The objective of this research was to explore theoretical predictions concerning the visualization and manipulation of minute structures. The central focus is on examining mechanical characteristics, including Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio, shear modulus, and buckling criteria in diverse configurations of single-walled carbon nanotubes. Beam elements are utilized in this study to model the covalent bonds between Carbon-Carbon (C-C) atoms in Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs). Using a continuum mechanics framework, the paper aims to predict the characteristics of these beam elements. Baseline values for the properties of C-C bonds are established through numerical analysis to conduct simulations. The paper employs a finite element methodology to scrutinize the mechanical behavior of carbon nanotubes and carries out a parametric investigation to evaluate the influence of single-walled carbon nanotube diameter on shear modulus and buckling loads.