Robust determination of Young's modulus of individual carbon nanotubes by quasi-static interaction with Lorentz forces

Young's modulus of an individual multi-wall carbon nanotube has been determined by the method of quasi-static transverse bending due to a Lorentz force observed in situ in a transmission electron microscope. The deflection of the nanotube allows the determination of Young's modulus using Euler–Bernoulli's beam equation. Because we determine the specific dependence of the deflection on the position along the nanotube axis, it is possible to gain insight into the type of mountings and furthermore allows for an estimation of the homogeneity of the nanotube. Both properties have been found to be of importance to determine Young's modulus. It was found to be higher by up to a factor of 1.6 compared to the value obtained by assuming rigid mountings. ►We present a robust method to determine Young's modulus of nanowires/nanotubes via quasi-static deflection by Lorentz forces. ►The results indicate a significant influence of the fixation point on the final result (factor 1.6). ►We present a model, which incorporates the influence of fixation points as well as (partial) coatings on the nanostructure under investigation. ►The use of a transmission electron microscope and the in situ experimentation allows for the simultaneous investigation of mechanical and electrical properties.