Statistical characterization of single-wall carbon nanotube length distribution

This paper describes an effective method for quantifying the length and length distribution of large Populations of single-wall carbon nanotubes using atomic force microscopy and SIMAGIS software. The results of the measurements were modelled with the Weibull distribution, resulting in a statistically confirmed fit. The fitted Weibull distribution was used to predict the length effect factor and elastic modulus as functions of nanotube properties in composite materials. The prediction shows that the length factor for the elastic modulus tends to increase with enhanced loading but decrease with rising rope diameter. The statistical characterization presented indicates a pathway for the future theoretical modelling and related experimental investigation of carbon nanotube application.