Atomistic theory of mechanical relaxation in fullerene nanotubes

A discussion of recently developed theoretical basis of the inelastic behavior of fullerene nanotubes is presented. Defect formation by a Stone-Wales bond rotation, its topology, and energy is calculated as a function of nanotube type, and an analytical equation is derived. Inter-defect interaction is analyzed due to its importance in the relaxation process. Strength of the nanotube-bundle is estimated for a broad range of parameters. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.