Dynamic range of nanotube- and nanowire-based electromechanical systems

Abstract

Nanomechanical resonators with high aspect ratio, such as nanotubes and nanowires are of interest due to their expected high sensitivity. However, a strongly nonlinear response combined with a high thermomechanical noise level limits the useful linear dynamic range of this type of device. We derive the equations governing this behavior and find a strong dependence [∝d √(dL)5] of the dynamic range on aspect ratio. © 2005 American Institute of Physics.