Flattening of multiwalled carbon nanotubes by electromigrationdriven ductile deformation of Ni nanorod filler †

Abstract

Ductile deformation and fracture of solid Ni nanorod fillers inside multiwalled carbon nanotubes were induced using the force induced by electromigration in a transmission electron microscope. The ductile elongation caused partial or full flattening of some host nanotubes, whereas other tubes remained cylindrical during the ductile process. The presence or absence of flattening of the host tubes was examined in terms of diameter, wall thickness, and magnitude of electric current.