Diamond bends at the nanoscale

The scientists project an electric field force then use a scanning electron microscope to affect the mechanical properties of diamond nanofibers.

Diamond is one of the hardest materials on the planet, but scientists at the University of Technology Sydney (Australia) have found a way to bend or change the diamond's shape at the nanoscale. The research is published in the journal Advanced Materials .

Diamonds can change their mechanical properties at the nanoscale.(Photo: Science Alert).

By shining an electric force on 20 nanometer long diamond nanofibers (10,000 times smaller than a human hair), experts can bend the diamond up to 90 degrees. The team used a scanning electron microscope to exert force on the shape and properties of diamonds. This process generates a large amount of electrical charge that warps diamond nanofibers.

The above method opens up new research directions in energy storage, quantum computing, protection materials."Diamonds are the precursor materials for new applications in nanotechnology, mechatronic systems and radiation shielding. Now the team in the study of how the nano-level diamond works, how they deform, change state , " said material scientist Blake Regan, University of Technology Sydney.

In addition to finding a method to bend diamond fibers at the nanoscale, the researchers also observed a new form of plastic deformation that can be explained by the appearance of a new form of carbon called O8-carbon. , closely related to the mechanical formation of diamonds. "These findings are useful in the intensive study of diamond properties and nanotechnology , " Blake said.

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