Continuum model of polygonization of carbon nanotubes

We derive a simple continuum model of multiwalled carbon nanotubes that takes into account both strong covalent bonds within graphene layers and weak bonds between graphene layers. The model predicts polygonization of cross sections of large multiwalled nanotubes.

Figure 1

Cross section of a two-walled carbon nanotube.

Figure 2

Positions of atoms on curves ${\mathcal{C}}_1$ and ${\mathcal{C}}_2$.

Figure 3

Two offset chains of atoms.

Figure 4

$G(\theta ,n)$ for the different values of $n$.

Figure 5

Shape of a nanotube as a function of its diameter.