Mechanics of deformation and fracture of nanomaterials and nanotechnology

The notions, models and experimental results concerning the strength and fracture of nanomaterials and nanotubes are discussed with regard to the influence of structure, presence and generation of defects, scale factor and dislocation mechanisms of plastic deformation as applied to nanomaterials. The atomic models of cracks in deformed solids and their relation to the continuous models of cracks in the mechanics of brittle and quasi-brittle fracture are examined. The experimental determination of strain and strength properties as well as fracture resistance parameters of nanomaterials and nanoobjects is considered.