Mechanical Energy Absorption Characteristics of Hollow and Water-Filled Carbon Nanotubes upon Low-Speed Crushing

Abstract

Using molecular dynamics simulations, the prospects are explored of using bundles, forests, and single carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for absorbing mechanical energies upon crushing. In particular, the deformation and energy absorption characteristics are compared between hollow and water-filled CNTs. It is shown that the buckling properties of hollow CNTs strongly depend on their geometrical parameters, whereas the critical buckling load and postbuckling stress can be significantly elevated with a filament of water, leading to pronounced energy absorption densities. Additional enhancements result from CNT bundles and forests. The present study may provide some insight into the potential application of employing CNTs as advanced energy absorption materials.