On the interaction of a single-walled carbon nanotube with a moving nanoparticle using nonlocal Rayleigh, Timoshenko, and higher-order beam theories

Interaction of a moving nanoparticle with a single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) is of concern. The SWCNT is simulated by an equivalent continuum structure (ECS) under simply supported boundary conditions. The moving nanoparticle is modeled by a moving point load by considering its full inertial effects and Coulomb friction with the inner surface of the ECS. The ECS under the moving nanoparticle is modeled based on the Rayleigh, Timoshenko, and higher-order beam theories in the context of the nonlocal continuum theory of Eringen. The dimensionless discrete equations of motion associated with the nonlocal beam models are then obtained by using Galerkin method. The effects of slenderness ratio of the ECS, ratio of mean radius to thickness of the ECS, mass weight and velocity of the moving nanoparticle, and small scale parameter on the dynamic response of the SWCNT are explored. The capabilities of various nonlocal beam theories in capturing the longitudinal and transverse displacements as well as the nonlocal axial force and bending moment are also scrutinized in some detail. The possibility of moving nanoparticle separation from the inner surface of the SWCNT is examined by monitoring the sign of the contact force. Subsequently, the role of important parameters on the possibility of this phenomenon is explored using various nonlocal beam theories.

► A single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) under a moving nanoparticle is scrutinized. ► The nonlocal Rayleigh, Timoshenko, and higher-order beam models are proposed. ► The role of influential parameters on DAFs of displacements of SWCNTs is explored. ► The application limits of various nonlocal beam theories are also discussed. ► The possibility of moving nanoparticle separation from the SWCNT is investigated.