Heavy-ion-induced modification of structural and mechanical properties of carbon-nanotube aerogels

We study the effect of 2 MeV Xe ion bombardment at room temperature on the microstructure and mechanical properties of cross-linked carbon-nanotube-based nanoporous carbons. Irradiation causes a gradual densification and a decrease in the surface roughness of monoliths, an increase in Young's modulus and failure stress, a decrease in the failure strain, and smoothening of nanoligament surfaces. Our results demonstrate a potential of heavy-ion bombardment for a controlled modification of nanoporous carbons.