Abstract
We demonstrate by molecular dynamics simulations that the domino process can be developed in single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs). Once a section of a SWCNT with an appropriate diameter () is collapsed, the successive collapse of the neighboring portions can generate a domino wave along the longitudinal direction of the tube. The wave is driven by van der Waals potential energy and its natural speed can be up to . Molecules inside the SWCNT can be accelerated by the domino wave and finally shot out. The finding shows for the first time that a SWCNT can be an energy supplier, which provides opportunities for designing new concept (domino-driven) nanoelectromechanical system devices.
- Received 17 June 2008
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.101.175501
©2008 American Physical Society