Simulation of Tensile Behaviors of Bamboo-like Carbon Nanotubes Based on Molecular Structural Mechanics Approach Combining with Finite Element Analysis

A molecular structural mechanics approach combining with finite element analysis (MSM/ FEA) was applied to study the microstructure and tensile behaviors of bamboo-like carbon nanotubes (BCNTs). The mathematical model of tensile behaviors of BCNTs was established based on molecular structural mechanics theory. The deformations of BCNTs, with different diameters and compartments set based on the experimental investigation on BCNT structures synthesized by chemical vapor depositon, under tensile load, were analyzed with ANSYS programmed. Results show that the BCNTs have good tensile properties, and those Young’s modulus can reach 0.84 Tpa. Through the analysis, it can be found that the Young’s modulus of BCNTs depends on the diameters and the length of compartment, which is in good agreement with our experimental tests for the tensile performances of individual BCNT.