Molecular dynamics methods with a Stillinger-Weber potential have been used to investigate the mechanical properties of wurtzite-type single crystalline GaN nanotubes under applied tensile stresses. At lower temperatures, the nanotubes show brittle properties; whereas at higher temperatures, they behave as ductile materials. The brittle to ductile transition (BDT) is systemically investigated, and the corresponding transition temperatures have been determined in GaN. The BDT temperature generally increases with increasing thickness of nanotubes and strain rate.
Revised: January 23, 2007 |
Published: December 11, 2006
Citation
Wang Z., X. Zu, F. Gao, and W.J. Weber. 2006.Atomistic Simulation of Brittle to Ductile Transition in GaN Nanotubes.Applied Physics Letters 89, no. 24:243123, 1-3.PNNL-SA-51746.doi:10.1063/1.2405879