Cuenot S., Demoustier-Champagne S., Frétigny C., Nysten B.
Université catholique de Louvain, BE
Keywords: AFM, elastic modulus, metallic nanowires, polymer nanotubes, size effects
The elastic modulus of metallic nanowires and polymer nanotubes was measured using a novel method called resonant contact atomic force microscopy. The direct application of a normal load to the contact was obtained using a sinusoidal electric field applied between the sample holder and the microscope head, that induces the cantilever vibration. This method also enabled the characterization of the mechanical behavior of the nanomechanical systems and the determination of the boundary conditions of the nanostructures (clamping conditions). It is shown that the measured elastic modulus increases with decreasing diameter. This increase can be explained both in terms of a better structural perfection in the smaller nanostructures and in terms of surface effects due to the higher surface to volume ratio in the smaller nanowires or nanotubes.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Technical Proceedings of the 2003 Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 3
Published: February 23, 2003
Pages: 549 - 552
Industry sector: Advanced Materials & Manufacturing
Topic: Nanoparticle Synthesis & Applications
ISBN: 0-9728422-2-5