181.
Coutinho, Samir S; Azevedo, David L; Galvao, Douglas S
Tuning Electronic and Structural Properties of Triple Layers of Intercalated Graphene and Hexagonal Boron Nitride: An Ab-initio Study. Journal Article
In: MRS Proceedings, vol. 1307, pp. mrsf10–1307, 2011.
@article{coutinho2011tuning,
title = {Tuning Electronic and Structural Properties of Triple Layers of Intercalated Graphene and Hexagonal Boron Nitride: An Ab-initio Study.},
author = {Coutinho, Samir S and Azevedo, David L and Galvao, Douglas S},
url = {http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract?fromPage=online&aid=8330317&fileId=S1946427411003642},
year = {2011},
date = {2011-01-01},
journal = {MRS Proceedings},
volume = {1307},
pages = {mrsf10--1307},
publisher = {Cambridge University Press},
abstract = {Recently, several experiments and theoretical studies demonstrated the possibility of tuning or modulating band gap values of nanostructures composed of bi-layer graphene, bi-layer hexagonal boron-nitride (BN) and hetero-layer combinations. These triple layers systems present several possibilities of stacking. In this work we report an ab initio (within the formalism of density functional theory (DFT)) study of structural and electronic properties of some of these stacked configurations. We observe that an applied external electric field can alter the electronic and structural properties of these systems. With the same value of the applied electric field the band gap values can be increased or decreased, depending on the layer stacking sequences. Strong geometrical deformations were observed. These results show that the application of an external electric field perpendicular to the stacked layers can effectively be used to modulate their inter-layer distances and/or their band gap values.},
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Recently, several experiments and theoretical studies demonstrated the possibility of tuning or modulating band gap values of nanostructures composed of bi-layer graphene, bi-layer hexagonal boron-nitride (BN) and hetero-layer combinations. These triple layers systems present several possibilities of stacking. In this work we report an ab initio (within the formalism of density functional theory (DFT)) study of structural and electronic properties of some of these stacked configurations. We observe that an applied external electric field can alter the electronic and structural properties of these systems. With the same value of the applied electric field the band gap values can be increased or decreased, depending on the layer stacking sequences. Strong geometrical deformations were observed. These results show that the application of an external electric field perpendicular to the stacked layers can effectively be used to modulate their inter-layer distances and/or their band gap values.
182.
Brunetto, Gustavo; Legoas, Sergio B; Coluci, Vitor R; Lucena, Liacir S; Galvao, Douglas S
Dynamics of Graphene Nanodrums Proceedings
Cambridge University Press, vol. 1284, 2011.
@proceedings{brunetto2011dynamics,
title = {Dynamics of Graphene Nanodrums},
author = {Brunetto, Gustavo and Legoas, Sergio B and Coluci, Vitor R and Lucena, Liacir S and Galvao, Douglas S},
url = {http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract?fromPage=online&aid=8195889&fileId=S1946427411002272},
year = {2011},
date = {2011-01-01},
journal = {MRS Proceedings},
volume = {1284},
pages = {mrsf10--1284},
publisher = {Cambridge University Press},
abstract = {Recently, it was proposed that graphene sheets deposited on silicon oxide can act as impermeable atomic membranes to standard gases, such as helium, argon, and nitrogen. It is assumed that graphene membrane is clamped over the surface due only to van der Waals forces. The leakage mechanism can be experimentally addressed only indirectly. In this work we have carried out molecular dynamics simulations to study this problem. We have considered nano-containers composed of a chamber of silicon oxide filled with gas and sealed by single and multi-layer graphene membranes. The obtained results are in good qualitative agreement with the experimental data. We observed that the graphene membranes remain attached to the substrate for pressure values up to two times the largest value experimentally investigated. We did not observe any gas leakage through the membrane/substrate interface until the critical limit is reached and then a sudden membrane detachment occurs.},
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Recently, it was proposed that graphene sheets deposited on silicon oxide can act as impermeable atomic membranes to standard gases, such as helium, argon, and nitrogen. It is assumed that graphene membrane is clamped over the surface due only to van der Waals forces. The leakage mechanism can be experimentally addressed only indirectly. In this work we have carried out molecular dynamics simulations to study this problem. We have considered nano-containers composed of a chamber of silicon oxide filled with gas and sealed by single and multi-layer graphene membranes. The obtained results are in good qualitative agreement with the experimental data. We observed that the graphene membranes remain attached to the substrate for pressure values up to two times the largest value experimentally investigated. We did not observe any gas leakage through the membrane/substrate interface until the critical limit is reached and then a sudden membrane detachment occurs.
183.
Vasconcelos, MS; Azevedo, David L; Hadad, A; Galvao, DS
Electronic properties of Fibonacci and random Si--Ge chains Journal Article
In: Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter, vol. 23, no. 40, pp. 405501, 2011.
@article{vasconcelos2011electronic,
title = {Electronic properties of Fibonacci and random Si--Ge chains},
author = {Vasconcelos, MS and Azevedo, David L and Hadad, A and Galvao, DS},
url = {http://iopscience.iop.org/0953-8984/23/40/405501},
year = {2011},
date = {2011-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Physics: Condensed Matter},
volume = {23},
number = {40},
pages = {405501},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {In this paper we address a theoretical calculation of the electronic spectra of an Si–Ge atomic chain that is arranged in a Fibonacci quasi-periodic sequence, by using a semi-empirical quantum method based on the Hückel extended model. We apply the Fibonacci substitutional sequences in the atomic building blocks A(Si) and B(Ge) through the inflation rule or a recursion relation. In our ab initio calculations we use only a single point, which is sufficient for considering all the orbitals and charge distribution across the entire system. Although the calculations presented here are more complete than the models adopted in the literature which take into account the electronic interaction only up to the second and third neighbors, an interesting property remains in their electronic spectra: the fractality (which is the main signature of this kind of system). We discuss this fractality of the spectra and we compare them with the random arrangement of the Si–Ge atomic chain, and with previous results based on the tight-binding approximation of the Schrödinger equation considering up to the nearest neighbor.
},
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In this paper we address a theoretical calculation of the electronic spectra of an Si–Ge atomic chain that is arranged in a Fibonacci quasi-periodic sequence, by using a semi-empirical quantum method based on the Hückel extended model. We apply the Fibonacci substitutional sequences in the atomic building blocks A(Si) and B(Ge) through the inflation rule or a recursion relation. In our ab initio calculations we use only a single point, which is sufficient for considering all the orbitals and charge distribution across the entire system. Although the calculations presented here are more complete than the models adopted in the literature which take into account the electronic interaction only up to the second and third neighbors, an interesting property remains in their electronic spectra: the fractality (which is the main signature of this kind of system). We discuss this fractality of the spectra and we compare them with the random arrangement of the Si–Ge atomic chain, and with previous results based on the tight-binding approximation of the Schrödinger equation considering up to the nearest neighbor.
184.
Brunetto, Gustavo; Sato, Fernando; Bouju, Xavier; Galvao, Douglas S
The First Molecular Wheel: A Theoretical Investigation Proceedings
Cambridge University Press, vol. 1286, 2011.
@proceedings{brunetto2011first,
title = {The First Molecular Wheel: A Theoretical Investigation},
author = {Brunetto, Gustavo and Sato, Fernando and Bouju, Xavier and Galvao, Douglas S},
url = {http://journals.cambridge.org/action/displayAbstract?fromPage=online&aid=7975705&fileId=S1946427411000133},
year = {2011},
date = {2011-01-01},
journal = {MRS Proceedings},
volume = {1286},
pages = {mrsf10--1286},
publisher = {Cambridge University Press},
abstract = {Recently, the first molecular nanowheel was synthesized and characterized from Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM) experiments. It was demonstrated that a specifically designed hydrocarbon molecule (C44H24) could roll on a copper substrate along the [110] surface direction. In this work we report a preliminary theoretical analysis of the isolated molecule and of its rolling processes on different Cu surfaces. We have used ab initio and classical molecular dynamics methods. The simulations showed that the rolling mechanism is only possible for the [110] surface. In this case, the spatial separation among rows of copper atoms is enough to ‘trap’ the molecule and to create the necessary torque to roll it. Other surface orientations ([111] and [100]) are too smooth and cannot provide the necessary torque for the rolling process.},
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Recently, the first molecular nanowheel was synthesized and characterized from Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM) experiments. It was demonstrated that a specifically designed hydrocarbon molecule (C44H24) could roll on a copper substrate along the [110] surface direction. In this work we report a preliminary theoretical analysis of the isolated molecule and of its rolling processes on different Cu surfaces. We have used ab initio and classical molecular dynamics methods. The simulations showed that the rolling mechanism is only possible for the [110] surface. In this case, the spatial separation among rows of copper atoms is enough to ‘trap’ the molecule and to create the necessary torque to roll it. Other surface orientations ([111] and [100]) are too smooth and cannot provide the necessary torque for the rolling process.
185.
Martins, BVC; Galvao, DS
Curved graphene nanoribbons: structure and dynamics of carbon nanobelts Journal Article
In: Nanotechnology, vol. 21, no. 7, pp. 075710, 2010.
@article{martins2010curved,
title = {Curved graphene nanoribbons: structure and dynamics of carbon nanobelts},
author = {Martins, BVC and Galvao, DS},
url = {http://iopscience.iop.org/0957-4484/21/7/075710},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {Nanotechnology},
volume = {21},
number = {7},
pages = {075710},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {Carbon nanoribbons (CNRs) are graphene (planar) structures with a large aspect ratio. Carbon nanobelts (CNBs) are small graphene nanoribbons rolled up into spiral-like structures, i.e. carbon nanoscrolls (CNSs) with a large aspect ratio. In this work we investigated the energetics and dynamical aspects of CNBs formed from rolling up CNRs. We have carried out molecular dynamics simulations using reactive empirical bond-order potentials. Our results show that, similarly to CNSs, CNB formation is dominated by two major energy contributions, the increase in the elastic energy due to the bending of the initial planar configuration (decreasing structural stability) and the energetic gain due to van der Waals interactions of the overlapping surface of the rolled layers (increasing structural stability). Beyond a critical diameter value these scrolled structures can be even more stable (in terms of energy) than their equivalent planar configurations. In contrast to CNSs that require energy-assisted processes (sonication, chemical reactions, etc) to be formed, CNBs can be spontaneously formed from low temperature driven processes. Long CNBs (length of ~30.0 nm) tend to exhibit self-folded racket-like conformations with formation dynamics very similar to the one observed for long carbon nanotubes. Shorter CNBs will be more likely to form perfect scrolled structures. Possible synthetic routes to fabricate CNBs from graphene membranes are also addressed.
},
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Carbon nanoribbons (CNRs) are graphene (planar) structures with a large aspect ratio. Carbon nanobelts (CNBs) are small graphene nanoribbons rolled up into spiral-like structures, i.e. carbon nanoscrolls (CNSs) with a large aspect ratio. In this work we investigated the energetics and dynamical aspects of CNBs formed from rolling up CNRs. We have carried out molecular dynamics simulations using reactive empirical bond-order potentials. Our results show that, similarly to CNSs, CNB formation is dominated by two major energy contributions, the increase in the elastic energy due to the bending of the initial planar configuration (decreasing structural stability) and the energetic gain due to van der Waals interactions of the overlapping surface of the rolled layers (increasing structural stability). Beyond a critical diameter value these scrolled structures can be even more stable (in terms of energy) than their equivalent planar configurations. In contrast to CNSs that require energy-assisted processes (sonication, chemical reactions, etc) to be formed, CNBs can be spontaneously formed from low temperature driven processes. Long CNBs (length of ~30.0 nm) tend to exhibit self-folded racket-like conformations with formation dynamics very similar to the one observed for long carbon nanotubes. Shorter CNBs will be more likely to form perfect scrolled structures. Possible synthetic routes to fabricate CNBs from graphene membranes are also addressed.
186.
Autreto, PAS; Legoas, SB; Flores, MZS; Galvao, DS
Carbon nanotube with square cross-section: An ab initio investigation Journal Article
In: The Journal of chemical physics, vol. 133, no. 12, pp. 124513, 2010.
@article{autreto2010carbon,
title = {Carbon nanotube with square cross-section: An ab initio investigation},
author = {Autreto, PAS and Legoas, SB and Flores, MZS and Galvao, DS},
url = {http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/133/12/10.1063/1.3483237},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {The Journal of chemical physics},
volume = {133},
number = {12},
pages = {124513},
publisher = {AIP Publishing},
abstract = {Recently, Lagos et al. [Nat. Nanotechnol.4, 149 (2009)] reported the discovery of the smallest possible silver square cross-section nanotube. A natural question is whether similar carbon nanotubes can exist. In this work we report ab initio results for the structural, stability, and electronic properties for such hypothetical structures. Our results show that stable (or at least metastable) structures are possible with metallic properties. They also show that these structures can be obtained by a direct interconversion from SWNT(2,2). Large finite cubanelike oligomers, topologically related to these new tubes, were also investigated.
},
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pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Recently, Lagos et al. [Nat. Nanotechnol.4, 149 (2009)] reported the discovery of the smallest possible silver square cross-section nanotube. A natural question is whether similar carbon nanotubes can exist. In this work we report ab initio results for the structural, stability, and electronic properties for such hypothetical structures. Our results show that stable (or at least metastable) structures are possible with metallic properties. They also show that these structures can be obtained by a direct interconversion from SWNT(2,2). Large finite cubanelike oligomers, topologically related to these new tubes, were also investigated.
187.
Garcez, Karl M; Moreira, Edvan; Azevedo, David L; Galvao, Douglas S
Neon atoms oscillating inside carbon and boron nitride nanotubes: a fully atomistic molecular dynamics investigation Journal Article
In: Molecular Simulation, vol. 36, no. 9, pp. 639–643, 2010.
@article{garcez2010neon,
title = {Neon atoms oscillating inside carbon and boron nitride nanotubes: a fully atomistic molecular dynamics investigation},
author = {Garcez, Karl M and Moreira, Edvan and Azevedo, David L and Galvao, Douglas S},
url = {http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08927020903463926#.VLfp54rF-2o},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {Molecular Simulation},
volume = {36},
number = {9},
pages = {639--643},
publisher = {Taylor & Francis Group},
abstract = {In the present work, based on extensive fully atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, we discuss the dynamics of neon atoms oscillating inside (5,5) single-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs). Our results show that sustained high-frequency oscillatory regimes are possible for a large range of temperatures. Our results also show that the general features of the oscillations are quite similar to those observed in CNT and BNNT, in contrast with some speculations in previous works in the literature about the importance of broken symmetry and chirality exhibited by BNNTs.},
keywords = {},
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}
In the present work, based on extensive fully atomistic molecular dynamics simulations, we discuss the dynamics of neon atoms oscillating inside (5,5) single-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs). Our results show that sustained high-frequency oscillatory regimes are possible for a large range of temperatures. Our results also show that the general features of the oscillations are quite similar to those observed in CNT and BNNT, in contrast with some speculations in previous works in the literature about the importance of broken symmetry and chirality exhibited by BNNTs.
188.
Coluci, VR; dos Santos, RPB; Galvao, DS
Topologically Closed Macromolecules Made of Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes—'Super'-Fullerenes Journal Article
In: Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, vol. 10, no. 7, pp. 4378–4383, 2010.
@article{coluci2010topologically,
title = {Topologically Closed Macromolecules Made of Single Walled Carbon Nanotubes—'Super'-Fullerenes},
author = {Coluci, VR and dos Santos, RPB and Galvao, DS},
url = {http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/asp/jnn/2010/00000010/00000007/art00040},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {Journal of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology},
volume = {10},
number = {7},
pages = {4378--4383},
publisher = {American Scientific Publishers},
abstract = {We propose and theoretically investigated a new class of topologically closed macromolecules built using single walled carbon nanotubes. These macromolecules are based on the fullerene architecture. Classical molecular dynamics simulations were used to predict their stability, thermal, vibrational, and mechanical properties. These macromolecules, named 'super'-fullerenes, present high porosity, low density (∼1 g/cm3), and high surface area (≅2500 m2/g). Our results predict gas phase specific heat of about 0.4 Jg−1K−1 at room temperature and high flexibility under compressive strains. These properties make these hypothetical macromolecules good candidates for gas storage material and biomolecular sieves.},
keywords = {},
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tppubtype = {article}
}
We propose and theoretically investigated a new class of topologically closed macromolecules built using single walled carbon nanotubes. These macromolecules are based on the fullerene architecture. Classical molecular dynamics simulations were used to predict their stability, thermal, vibrational, and mechanical properties. These macromolecules, named 'super'-fullerenes, present high porosity, low density (∼1 g/cm3), and high surface area (≅2500 m2/g). Our results predict gas phase specific heat of about 0.4 Jg−1K−1 at room temperature and high flexibility under compressive strains. These properties make these hypothetical macromolecules good candidates for gas storage material and biomolecular sieves.
189.
Lagos, MJ; Sato, F; Autreto, PAS; Galvao, DS; Rodrigues, V; Ugarte, D
Temperature effects on the atomic arrangement and conductance of atomic-size gold nanowires generated by mechanical stretching Journal Article
In: Nanotechnology, vol. 21, no. 48, pp. 485702, 2010.
@article{lagos2010temperature,
title = {Temperature effects on the atomic arrangement and conductance of atomic-size gold nanowires generated by mechanical stretching},
author = {Lagos, MJ and Sato, F and Autreto, PAS and Galvao, DS and Rodrigues, V and Ugarte, D},
url = {http://iopscience.iop.org/0957-4484/21/48/485702},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {Nanotechnology},
volume = {21},
number = {48},
pages = {485702},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {We have studied the changes induced by thermal effects in the structural and transport response of Au nanowires generated by mechanical elongation. We have used time-resolved atomic resolution transmission electron microscopy imaging and quantum conductance measurement using a mechanically controllable break junction. Our results showed remarkable differences in the NW evolution for experiments realized at 150 and 300 K, which modifies drastically the conductance response during elongation. Molecular dynamics and electronic transport calculations were used to consistently correlate the observed structural and conductance behavior. These results emphasize that it is essential to take into account the precise atomic arrangement of nanocontacts generated by mechanical stretching to understand electrical transport properties. Also, our study shows that much care must be taken when comparing results obtained in different experimental conditions, mainly different temperatures.
},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
We have studied the changes induced by thermal effects in the structural and transport response of Au nanowires generated by mechanical elongation. We have used time-resolved atomic resolution transmission electron microscopy imaging and quantum conductance measurement using a mechanically controllable break junction. Our results showed remarkable differences in the NW evolution for experiments realized at 150 and 300 K, which modifies drastically the conductance response during elongation. Molecular dynamics and electronic transport calculations were used to consistently correlate the observed structural and conductance behavior. These results emphasize that it is essential to take into account the precise atomic arrangement of nanocontacts generated by mechanical stretching to understand electrical transport properties. Also, our study shows that much care must be taken when comparing results obtained in different experimental conditions, mainly different temperatures.
190.
Moreira, E; Lemos, V; Galvao, DS; Azevedo, DL
$beta$-Carotene encapsulation into single-walled carbon nanotubes: a theoretical study Journal Article
In: Molecular Simulation, vol. 36, no. 13, pp. 1031–1034, 2010.
@article{moreira2010beta,
title = {$beta$-Carotene encapsulation into single-walled carbon nanotubes: a theoretical study},
author = {Moreira, E and Lemos, V and Galvao, DS and Azevedo, DL},
url = {http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/08927022.2010.501519#.VLfmM4rF-2o},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {Molecular Simulation},
volume = {36},
number = {13},
pages = {1031--1034},
publisher = {Taylor & Francis},
abstract = {Recently, the encapsulation of β-carotene molecules into carbon nanotubes has been achieved. In this work, we report molecular dynamics simulations and tight-binding density functional-based results for a theoretical study of the encapsulation processes. Our results show that the molecules undergo geometrical deformations when encapsulated with significant changes in their electronic structure. Based on these results, we propose a new interpretation to the changes associated with the β-carotene absorption bands experimentally observed.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Recently, the encapsulation of β-carotene molecules into carbon nanotubes has been achieved. In this work, we report molecular dynamics simulations and tight-binding density functional-based results for a theoretical study of the encapsulation processes. Our results show that the molecules undergo geometrical deformations when encapsulated with significant changes in their electronic structure. Based on these results, we propose a new interpretation to the changes associated with the β-carotene absorption bands experimentally observed.
191.
Sato, F; Legoas, SB; Otero, R; Hummelink, F; Thostrup, P; Lægsgaard, E; Stensgaard, I; Besenbacher, F; Galvao, DS
Adsorption configuration effects on the surface diffusion of large organic molecules: The case of Violet Lander Journal Article
In: The Journal of chemical physics, vol. 133, no. 22, pp. 224702, 2010.
@article{sato2010adsorption,
title = {Adsorption configuration effects on the surface diffusion of large organic molecules: The case of Violet Lander},
author = {Sato, F and Legoas, SB and Otero, R and Hummelink, F and Thostrup, P and Lægsgaard, E and Stensgaard, I and Besenbacher, F and Galvao, DS},
url = {http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/jcp/133/22/10.1063/1.3512623},
year = {2010},
date = {2010-01-01},
journal = {The Journal of chemical physics},
volume = {133},
number = {22},
pages = {224702},
publisher = {AIP Publishing},
abstract = {Violet Lander (C108H104) is a large organic molecule that when deposited on Cu(110) surface exhibits lock-and-key like behavior [Otero et al., Nature Mater. 3, 779 (2004)]. In this work, we report a detailed fully atomistic molecular mechanics and molecular dynamics study of this phenomenon. Our results show that it has its physical basis on the interplay of the molecular hydrogens and the Cu(110) atomic spacing, which is a direct consequence of the matching between molecule and surface dimensions. This information could be used to find new molecules capable of displaying lock-and-key behavior with new potential applications in nanotechnology.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Violet Lander (C108H104) is a large organic molecule that when deposited on Cu(110) surface exhibits lock-and-key like behavior [Otero et al., Nature Mater. 3, 779 (2004)]. In this work, we report a detailed fully atomistic molecular mechanics and molecular dynamics study of this phenomenon. Our results show that it has its physical basis on the interplay of the molecular hydrogens and the Cu(110) atomic spacing, which is a direct consequence of the matching between molecule and surface dimensions. This information could be used to find new molecules capable of displaying lock-and-key behavior with new potential applications in nanotechnology.
192.
Flores, Marcelo ZS; Autreto, Pedro AS; Legoas, Sergio B; Galvao, Douglas S
Graphene to graphane: a theoretical study Journal Article
In: Nanotechnology, vol. 20, no. 46, pp. 465704, 2009.
@article{flores2009graphene,
title = {Graphene to graphane: a theoretical study},
author = {Flores, Marcelo ZS and Autreto, Pedro AS and Legoas, Sergio B and Galvao, Douglas S},
url = {http://iopscience.iop.org/0957-4484/20/46/465704},
year = {2009},
date = {2009-01-01},
journal = {Nanotechnology},
volume = {20},
number = {46},
pages = {465704},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {Graphane is a two-dimensional system consisting of a single layer of fully saturated (sp3 hybridization) carbon atoms. In an ideal graphane structure C–H bonds exhibit an alternating pattern (up and down with relation to the plane defined by the carbon atoms). In this work we have investigated, using ab initio and reactive molecular dynamics simulations, the role of H frustration (breaking the H atoms' up and down alternating pattern) in graphane-like structures. Our results show that a significant percentage of uncorrelated H frustrated domains are formed in the early stages of the hydrogenation process leading to membrane shrinkage and extensive membrane corrugations. These results also suggest that large domains of perfect graphane-like structures are unlikely to be formed, as H frustrated domains are always present.
},
keywords = {},
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tppubtype = {article}
}
Graphane is a two-dimensional system consisting of a single layer of fully saturated (sp3 hybridization) carbon atoms. In an ideal graphane structure C–H bonds exhibit an alternating pattern (up and down with relation to the plane defined by the carbon atoms). In this work we have investigated, using ab initio and reactive molecular dynamics simulations, the role of H frustration (breaking the H atoms' up and down alternating pattern) in graphane-like structures. Our results show that a significant percentage of uncorrelated H frustrated domains are formed in the early stages of the hydrogenation process leading to membrane shrinkage and extensive membrane corrugations. These results also suggest that large domains of perfect graphane-like structures are unlikely to be formed, as H frustrated domains are always present.
193.
Caetano, Ewerton WS; Freire, Valder N; Santos, Sergio G dos; Galvao, Douglas S; Sato, Fernando
Mobius and twisted graphene nanoribbons: stability, geometry and electronic properties Journal Article
In: arXiv preprint arXiv:0903.2080, 2009.
@article{caetano2009m,
title = {Mobius and twisted graphene nanoribbons: stability, geometry and electronic properties},
author = {Caetano, Ewerton WS and Freire, Valder N and Santos, Sergio G dos and Galvao, Douglas S and Sato, Fernando},
url = {http://arxiv.org/abs/0903.2080},
year = {2009},
date = {2009-01-01},
journal = {arXiv preprint arXiv:0903.2080},
abstract = {Results of classical force field geometry optimizations for twisted graphene nanoribbons with a number of twists Nt varying from 0 to 7 (the case Nt=1 corresponds to a half-twist M"obius nanoribbon) are presented in this work. Their structural stability was investigated using the Brenner reactive force field. The best classical molecular geometries were used as input for semiempirical calculations, from which the electronic properties (energy levels, HOMO, LUMO orbitals) were computed for each structure. CI wavefunctions were also calculated in the complete active space framework taking into account eigenstates from HOMO-4 to LUMO+4, as well as the oscillator strengths corresponding to the first optical transitions in the UV-VIS range. The lowest energy molecules were found less symmetric than initial configurations, and the HOMO-LUMO energy gaps are larger than the value found for the nanographene used to build them due to electronic localization effects created by the twisting. A high number of twists leads to a sharp increase of the HOMO → LUMO transition energy. We suggest that some twisted nanoribbons could form crystals stabilized by dipolar interactions.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Results of classical force field geometry optimizations for twisted graphene nanoribbons with a number of twists Nt varying from 0 to 7 (the case Nt=1 corresponds to a half-twist M\"obius nanoribbon) are presented in this work. Their structural stability was investigated using the Brenner reactive force field. The best classical molecular geometries were used as input for semiempirical calculations, from which the electronic properties (energy levels, HOMO, LUMO orbitals) were computed for each structure. CI wavefunctions were also calculated in the complete active space framework taking into account eigenstates from HOMO-4 to LUMO+4, as well as the oscillator strengths corresponding to the first optical transitions in the UV-VIS range. The lowest energy molecules were found less symmetric than initial configurations, and the HOMO-LUMO energy gaps are larger than the value found for the nanographene used to build them due to electronic localization effects created by the twisting. A high number of twists leads to a sharp increase of the HOMO → LUMO transition energy. We suggest that some twisted nanoribbons could form crystals stabilized by dipolar interactions.
194.
Lagos, MJ; Sato, Fernando; Bettini, Jeferson; Rodrigues, Varlei; Galvao, Douglas S; Ugarte, Daniel
Observation of the smallest metal nanotube with a square cross-section Journal Article
In: Nature Nanotechnology, vol. 4, no. 3, pp. 149–152, 2009.
@article{lagos2009observation,
title = {Observation of the smallest metal nanotube with a square cross-section},
author = {Lagos, MJ and Sato, Fernando and Bettini, Jeferson and Rodrigues, Varlei and Galvao, Douglas S and Ugarte, Daniel},
url = {http://www.nature.com/nnano/journal/v4/n3/abs/nnano.2008.414.html},
year = {2009},
date = {2009-01-01},
journal = {Nature Nanotechnology},
volume = {4},
number = {3},
pages = {149--152},
publisher = {Nature Publishing Group},
abstract = {Understanding the mechanical properties of nanoscale systems requires a range of measurement techniques and theoretical approaches to gather the relevant physical and chemical information. The arrangements of atoms in nanostructures and macroscopic matter can be different, principally due to the role of surface energy, but the interplay between atomic and electronic structure in association with applied mechanical stress can also lead to surprising differences. For example, metastable structures such as suspended chains of atoms1, 2, 3 and helical wires4, 5 have been produced by stretching metal junctions. Here, we report the spontaneous formation of the smallest possible metal nanotube with a square cross-section during the elongation of silver nanocontacts. Ab initio calculations and molecular simulations indicate that the hollow wire forms because this configuration allows the surface energy to be minimized, and also generates a soft structure capable of absorbing a huge tensile deformation.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Understanding the mechanical properties of nanoscale systems requires a range of measurement techniques and theoretical approaches to gather the relevant physical and chemical information. The arrangements of atoms in nanostructures and macroscopic matter can be different, principally due to the role of surface energy, but the interplay between atomic and electronic structure in association with applied mechanical stress can also lead to surprising differences. For example, metastable structures such as suspended chains of atoms1, 2, 3 and helical wires4, 5 have been produced by stretching metal junctions. Here, we report the spontaneous formation of the smallest possible metal nanotube with a square cross-section during the elongation of silver nanocontacts. Ab initio calculations and molecular simulations indicate that the hollow wire forms because this configuration allows the surface energy to be minimized, and also generates a soft structure capable of absorbing a huge tensile deformation.
195.
Coluci, VR; Timoteo, VS; Galvao, DS
Thermophoretically driven carbon nanotube oscillators Journal Article
In: Applied Physics Letters, vol. 95, no. 25, pp. 253103, 2009.
@article{coluci2009thermophoretically,
title = {Thermophoretically driven carbon nanotube oscillators},
author = {Coluci, VR and Timoteo, VS and Galvao, DS},
url = {http://scitation.aip.org/content/aip/journal/apl/95/25/10.1063/1.3276546},
year = {2009},
date = {2009-01-01},
journal = {Applied Physics Letters},
volume = {95},
number = {25},
pages = {253103},
publisher = {AIP Publishing},
abstract = {The behavior of a nanodevice based upon double-walled carbon nanotubeoscillators driven by periodically applied thermal gradients (7 and 17 K/nm) is investigated by numerical calculations and classical molecular dynamics simulations. Our results indicate that thermophoresis can be effective to initiate the oscillator and that suitable heat pulses may provide an appropriate way to tune its behavior. Sustained regular oscillatory as well as chaotic motions were observed for the systems investigated in this work.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The behavior of a nanodevice based upon double-walled carbon nanotubeoscillators driven by periodically applied thermal gradients (7 and 17 K/nm) is investigated by numerical calculations and classical molecular dynamics simulations. Our results indicate that thermophoresis can be effective to initiate the oscillator and that suitable heat pulses may provide an appropriate way to tune its behavior. Sustained regular oscillatory as well as chaotic motions were observed for the systems investigated in this work.
196.
Perim, Eric; Galvao, Douglas S
The structure and dynamics of boron nitride nanoscrolls Journal Article
In: Nanotechnology, vol. 20, no. 33, pp. 335702, 2009.
@article{perim2009structure,
title = {The structure and dynamics of boron nitride nanoscrolls},
author = {Perim, Eric and Galvao, Douglas S},
url = {http://iopscience.iop.org/0957-4484/20/33/335702},
year = {2009},
date = {2009-01-01},
journal = {Nanotechnology},
volume = {20},
number = {33},
pages = {335702},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {Carbon nanoscrolls (CNSs) are structures formed by rolling up graphene layers into a scroll-like shape. CNNs have been experimentally produced by different groups. Boron nitride nanoscrolls (BNNSs) are similar structures using boron nitride instead of graphene layers. In this paper we report molecular mechanics and molecular dynamics results for the structural and dynamical aspects of BNNS formation. Similarly to CNS, BNNS formation is dominated by two major energy contributions, the increase in the elastic energy and the energetic gain due to van der Waals interactions of the overlapping surface of the rolled layers. The armchair scrolls are the most stable configuration while zigzag scrolls are metastable structures which can be thermally converted to armchairs. Chiral scrolls are unstable and tend to evolve into zigzag or armchair configurations depending on their initial geometries. The possible experimental routes to produce BNNSs are also addressed.
},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Carbon nanoscrolls (CNSs) are structures formed by rolling up graphene layers into a scroll-like shape. CNNs have been experimentally produced by different groups. Boron nitride nanoscrolls (BNNSs) are similar structures using boron nitride instead of graphene layers. In this paper we report molecular mechanics and molecular dynamics results for the structural and dynamical aspects of BNNS formation. Similarly to CNS, BNNS formation is dominated by two major energy contributions, the increase in the elastic energy and the energetic gain due to van der Waals interactions of the overlapping surface of the rolled layers. The armchair scrolls are the most stable configuration while zigzag scrolls are metastable structures which can be thermally converted to armchairs. Chiral scrolls are unstable and tend to evolve into zigzag or armchair configurations depending on their initial geometries. The possible experimental routes to produce BNNSs are also addressed.
197.
Dos Santos, SG; Pires, MS; Lemos, V; Freire, VN; Caetano, EWS; Galvao, DS; Sato, F; Albuquerque, EL
C60-derived nanobaskets: stability, vibrational signatures, and molecular trapping Journal Article
In: Nanotechnology, vol. 20, no. 39, pp. 395701, 2009.
@article{dos2009c60,
title = {C60-derived nanobaskets: stability, vibrational signatures, and molecular trapping},
author = {Dos Santos, SG and Pires, MS and Lemos, V and Freire, VN and Caetano, EWS and Galvao, DS and Sato, F and Albuquerque, EL},
url = {http://iopscience.iop.org/0957-4484/20/39/395701},
year = {2009},
date = {2009-01-01},
journal = {Nanotechnology},
volume = {20},
number = {39},
pages = {395701},
publisher = {IOP Publishing},
abstract = {C60-derived nanobaskets, with chemical formulae (symmetry point group) C40H10 (C5v), C39H12 (C3v), C46H12 (C2v), were investigated. Molecular dynamic simulations (MDSs) indicate that the molecules preserve their bonding frame for temperatures up to 300 K (simulation time 100 ps), and maintain atomic cohesion for at least 4 ps at temperatures up to 3500 K. The infrared spectra of the C60-derived nanobaskets were simulated through density functional theory (DFT) calculations, allowing for the attribution of infrared signatures specific to each carbon nanobasket. The possibility of using C60-derived nanobaskets as molecular containers is demonstrated by performing a DFT study of their bonding to hydrogen, water, and L-alanine. The carbon nanostructures presented here show a higher bonding energy (~1.0 eV), suggesting that a family of nanostructures, Cn-derived (n = 60,70,76,80, etc) nanobaskets, could work as molecular containers, paving the way for future developments such as tunable traps for complex molecular systems.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
C60-derived nanobaskets, with chemical formulae (symmetry point group) C40H10 (C5v), C39H12 (C3v), C46H12 (C2v), were investigated. Molecular dynamic simulations (MDSs) indicate that the molecules preserve their bonding frame for temperatures up to 300 K (simulation time 100 ps), and maintain atomic cohesion for at least 4 ps at temperatures up to 3500 K. The infrared spectra of the C60-derived nanobaskets were simulated through density functional theory (DFT) calculations, allowing for the attribution of infrared signatures specific to each carbon nanobasket. The possibility of using C60-derived nanobaskets as molecular containers is demonstrated by performing a DFT study of their bonding to hydrogen, water, and L-alanine. The carbon nanostructures presented here show a higher bonding energy (~1.0 eV), suggesting that a family of nanostructures, Cn-derived (n = 60,70,76,80, etc) nanobaskets, could work as molecular containers, paving the way for future developments such as tunable traps for complex molecular systems.
198.
Rocha, Tulio CR; Sato, Fernando; Dantas, Socrates O; Galvao, Douglas S; Zanchet, Daniela
New Insights on the Growth of Anisotropic Nanoparticles from Total Energy Calculations Journal Article
In: The Journal of Physical Chemistry C, vol. 113, no. 28, pp. 11976–11979, 2009.
@article{rocha2009new,
title = {New Insights on the Growth of Anisotropic Nanoparticles from Total Energy Calculations},
author = {Rocha, Tulio CR and Sato, Fernando and Dantas, Socrates O and Galvao, Douglas S and Zanchet, Daniela},
url = {http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jp903794y},
year = {2009},
date = {2009-01-01},
journal = {The Journal of Physical Chemistry C},
volume = {113},
number = {28},
pages = {11976--11979},
publisher = {American Chemical Society},
abstract = {The growth mechanism of anisotropic metallic nanoparticles is still an open and polemical question. The common observation of the existence of nonspherical (not the most stable) shapes in varied experimental conditions is not fully understood. In this work, based on results from total energy calculations for different shapes and sizes of Ag nanoparticles, we provide new insights of why anisotropic structures are commonly found in different preparation conditions. We show that, assuming the presence of a particle shape distribution in the beginning of the growth process, anisotropic nanoparticles can preferentially grow over spherical ones due to the fact that the energy required to build larger anisotropic structures could be less than the one required to build isotropic structures. These results suggest that many previous works in literature shall be revisited accordingly to these new finds.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
The growth mechanism of anisotropic metallic nanoparticles is still an open and polemical question. The common observation of the existence of nonspherical (not the most stable) shapes in varied experimental conditions is not fully understood. In this work, based on results from total energy calculations for different shapes and sizes of Ag nanoparticles, we provide new insights of why anisotropic structures are commonly found in different preparation conditions. We show that, assuming the presence of a particle shape distribution in the beginning of the growth process, anisotropic nanoparticles can preferentially grow over spherical ones due to the fact that the energy required to build larger anisotropic structures could be less than the one required to build isotropic structures. These results suggest that many previous works in literature shall be revisited accordingly to these new finds.
199.
Legoas, Sergio B; Autreto, Pedro AS; Flores, Marcelo ZS; Galvao, Douglas S
Graphene to graphane: the role of H frustration in lattice contraction Journal Article
In: arXiv preprint arXiv:0903.0278, 2009.
@article{legoas2009graphene,
title = {Graphene to graphane: the role of H frustration in lattice contraction},
author = {Legoas, Sergio B and Autreto, Pedro AS and Flores, Marcelo ZS and Galvao, Douglas S},
url = {http://arxiv.org/abs/0903.0278},
year = {2009},
date = {2009-01-01},
journal = {arXiv preprint arXiv:0903.0278},
abstract = {Graphane is a two-dimensional system consisting of a single planar layer of fully saturated (sp3 hybridization) carbon atoms with H atoms attached to them in an alternating pattern (up and down with relation to the plane defined by the carbon atoms). Stable graphane structures were theoretically predicted to exist some years ago and just experimentally realized through hydrogenation of graphene membranes. In this work we have investigated using textit{ab initio} and reactive molecular dynamics the role of H frustration (breaking the H atoms up and down alternating pattern) in graphane-like structures. Our results show that H frustration significantly contributes to lattice contraction. The dynamical aspects of converting graphene to graphane is also addressed.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
Graphane is a two-dimensional system consisting of a single planar layer of fully saturated (sp3 hybridization) carbon atoms with H atoms attached to them in an alternating pattern (up and down with relation to the plane defined by the carbon atoms). Stable graphane structures were theoretically predicted to exist some years ago and just experimentally realized through hydrogenation of graphene membranes. In this work we have investigated using \textit{ab initio} and reactive molecular dynamics the role of H frustration (breaking the H atoms up and down alternating pattern) in graphane-like structures. Our results show that H frustration significantly contributes to lattice contraction. The dynamical aspects of converting graphene to graphane is also addressed.
200.
Caetano, Ewerton WS; Freire, Valder N; dos Santos, Sergio G; Albuquerque, EL; Galvao, Douglas S; Sato, Fernando
Defects in Graphene-Based Twisted Nanoribbons: Structural, Electronic, and Optical Properties Journal Article
In: Langmuir, vol. 25, no. 8, pp. 4751–4759, 2009.
@article{caetano2009defects,
title = {Defects in Graphene-Based Twisted Nanoribbons: Structural, Electronic, and Optical Properties},
author = {Caetano, Ewerton WS and Freire, Valder N and dos Santos, Sergio G and Albuquerque, EL and Galvao, Douglas S and Sato, Fernando},
url = {http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/la803929f},
year = {2009},
date = {2009-01-01},
journal = {Langmuir},
volume = {25},
number = {8},
pages = {4751--4759},
publisher = {ACS Publications},
abstract = {We present some computational simulations of graphene-based nanoribbons with a number of half-twists varying from 0 to 4 and two types of defects obtained by removing a single carbon atom from two different sites. Optimized geometries are found by using a mix of classical quantum semiempirical computations. According with the simulations results, the local curvature of the nanoribbons increases at the defect sites, especially for a higher number of half-twists. The HOMO−LUMO energy gap of the nanostructures has significant variation when the number of half-twists increases for the defective nanoribbons. At the quantum semiempirical level, the first optically active transitions and oscillator strengths are calculated using the full configuration interaction (CI) framework, and the optical absorption in the UV/vis range (electronic transitions) and in the infrared (vibrational transitions) are achieved. Distinct nanoribbons show unique spectral signatures in the UV/vis range, with the first absorption peaks in wavelengths ranging from the orange to the violet. Strong absorption is observed in the ultraviolet region, although differences in their infrared spectra are hardly discernible.},
keywords = {},
pubstate = {published},
tppubtype = {article}
}
We present some computational simulations of graphene-based nanoribbons with a number of half-twists varying from 0 to 4 and two types of defects obtained by removing a single carbon atom from two different sites. Optimized geometries are found by using a mix of classical quantum semiempirical computations. According with the simulations results, the local curvature of the nanoribbons increases at the defect sites, especially for a higher number of half-twists. The HOMO−LUMO energy gap of the nanostructures has significant variation when the number of half-twists increases for the defective nanoribbons. At the quantum semiempirical level, the first optically active transitions and oscillator strengths are calculated using the full configuration interaction (CI) framework, and the optical absorption in the UV/vis range (electronic transitions) and in the infrared (vibrational transitions) are achieved. Distinct nanoribbons show unique spectral signatures in the UV/vis range, with the first absorption peaks in wavelengths ranging from the orange to the violet. Strong absorption is observed in the ultraviolet region, although differences in their infrared spectra are hardly discernible.
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