Molecular dynamics study of radial pressure transmission in multiwalled carbon nanotubes

The pressure response of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to the radial hydrostatic pressure is studied by using constant pressure molecular dynamics simulations for finite systems. The inner tube is effectively protected by the outer tube against the external pressure. The pressure transmission efficiency of MWCNTs depends upon both the size and morphology combination of the tubes. The larger the tube is, the higher the pressure transmission efficiency will be. The pressure transmission in commensurate MWCNTs is more efficient than that in incommensurate ones. Based on the present simulations, an experimental method is suggested for measuring the pressure transmission efficiency of MWCNTs.