Thin-shell theory based analysis of radially pressurized multiwall carbon nanotubes

TL;DR

This paper uses thin-shell theory to analyze how multiwall carbon nanotubes deform under pressure, focusing on the critical pressure for shape change and the effects of wall interactions.

Contribution

It introduces a rigorous formulation of van der Waals interactions between walls and applies thin-shell theory with accurate elastic constants to analyze radial deformation.

Findings

Critical pressure for shape transformation estimated

Radial corrugation effects on physical properties discussed

Two approaches for van der Waals interaction analyzed

Abstract

Elastic radial deformation of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) under hydrostatic pressure is investigated within the continuum elastic approximation. The thin-shell theory, with accurate elastic constants and interwall couplings, allows us to estimate the critical pressure $p_c$ above which the original circular cross-section transforms into radially corrugated ones. Emphasis is placed on the rigorous formulation of the van der Waals interaction between adjacent walls, which we analyze using two different approaches. Possible consequences of the radial corrugation in the physical properties of pressurized MWNTs are also discussed.