A Method to Evaluate the Tensile Strength and Stress–Strain Relationship of Carbon Nanofibers, Carbon Nanotubes, and C‐Chains

Abstract A method is introduced to assess the tensile strength of carbon nanofibers, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and linear chains of carbon atoms (C‐chains) obtained from thin amorphous carbon films by electron irradiation. Transmission electron microscopy images show that the nanofibers undergo a radiation‐induced necking process, characterized by CNT formation and often followed by the formation of a C‐chain. Simulations of the necking process are carried out to determine the tensile stress supported by the nanofiber and CNT neck.