edge effect

The physical properties of graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) are closely related to their morphology; meanwhile GNRs can easily slide on surfaces (e.g., superlubricity), which may largely affect the configuration and hence the properties. However, the morphological evolution of GNRs during sliding remain elusive. We explore the intriguing tail swing behavior of GNRs under various sliding configurations on Au substrate. Two distinct modes of tail swing emerge, characterized by regular and irregular swings, depending on the GNR width and initial position relative to the substrate.

Bistable structures, exemplified
by the Venus flytrap and slap bracelets, can switch between different
functional shapes upon actuation, and have important applications in
mechanical/electro-mechanical devices ranging from bio-inspired robots to
deployable aeroplane wings. Despite numerous efforts in modeling such large
deformation of shell structures, the roles of mechanical and nonlinear geometric
effects on bistability remains elusive. Closely related, emerging challenges
include modeling the spontaneous curving and buckling of thin objects such as