Thin-shell theory based analysis of radially pressurized multiwall carbon nanotubes

The radial deformation of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) under hydrostatic pressure is investigated within the continuum elastic approximation. A thin-shell theory, with accurate elastic constants and interwall couplings, allows us to estimate the critical pressure above which the original circular cross-section transforms into radially corrugated ones. The emphasis is placed on the rigorous formulation of the van der Waals interaction between adjacent walls, which we analyze using two different approaches. Possible consequences of the radial corrugation in the physical properties of pressurized MWNTs are also discussed.

The thin-shell theory is employed to elucidate the carbon nanotube deformation. Critical pressure for the radial buckling is evaluated with high precision. Above the critical pressure, the cross section exhibits radially corrugated shape. Physical consequences of the cross-sectional corrugation are discussed.