Nonlinear dynamics of SWNTs. Energy beating and localization

Abstract

In this paper, the nonlinear vibrations and energy exchange of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) are investigated. The Sanders-Koiter theory is applied to model the nonlinear dynamics of the system in the case of finite amplitude of vibration. The SWNT deformation is described in terms of longitudinal, circumferential and radial displacement fields. Simply supported boundary conditions are considered. The circumferential flexural modes (CFMs), radial breathing modes (RBMs) and beam-like modes (BLMs) are studied. A numerical model of the SWNT dynamics is proposed. The three displacement fields are expanded in the nonlinear field by using approximate linear eigenfunctions. An energy method based on the Lagrange equations is used to reduce the nonlinear partial differential equations of motion to a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations, which is solved using the implicit Runge-Kutta numerical method. The nonlinear energy exchange along the SWNT axis is analysed for different initial excitation amplitudes. The internal resonances between CFMs, RBMs and BLMs are investigated. The transition from energy beating to energy localization in the nonlinear field is studied.