Characterizing the mechanical properties of carbon nanocones using an accurate spring-mass model

Abstract

A three-dimensional finite element (FE) formulation based on a spring-mass model is presented to investigate the mechanical properties of single-walled carbon nanocones (SWCNCs). The rotational spring elements together with longitudinal ones are employed for modeling the covalent bond between the carbon atoms, and the carbon atoms are modeled by mass elements. Analytical expressions for Young's and shear moduli of SWCNCs with five feasible apex angles are obtained in terms of axial and torsion loads, respectively. The effects of geometrical parameters on the mechanical properties of SWCNCs are investigated. It is found that the apex angle of SWCNCs has a significant influence on their Young's and shear moduli. Moreover, in contrast to the results of similar works in the literature, the present results reveal that the length and small radius of nanocones do not play a major role in their mechanical properties. It is shown that with increasing small radius, Young's modulus slightly increases. To assess the accuracy of the developed FE formulation, molecular dynamics simulations are also conducted. © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.