Mechanical properties of carbon nanocones

In this paper, the elastic and plastic properties of single-walled carbon nanocones (CNCs) under tension are investigated employing molecular dynamics simulation. The force-deformation responses of CNCs are obtained and compared with those of carbon nanotubes (CNTs). CNCs with a larger apex angle present a larger failure strength but a smaller maximum strain under tension. Following this law, CNTs exhibit the smallest failure strength but greatest maximum strain due to their zero conical angles. The mechanical properties such as Young's modulus, elastic strain limit, and ultimate force are determined and discussed. © 2007 American Institute of Physics.