We study the interfacial structure, stability, and elastic properties of composite carbon films containing nanotubes. Our Monte Carlo simulations show that Van der Waals forces play a vital role in shaping up the interfacial geometry, producing a curved graphitic wall surrounding the tubes. The most stable structures are predicted to have intermediate densities, high anisotropies, and increased elastic moduli compared to pure amorphous carbon films.
@article{arxiv.cond-mat/0504400,
title = {Simulations of composite carbon films with nanotube inclusions},
author = {M. G. Fyta and P. C. Kelires},
journal= {arXiv preprint arXiv:cond-mat/0504400},
year = {2009}
}