LAUSR

Abstract A model for the size-dependent Young's modulus Y(D) of nanomaterials is established in this work through introducing their single bond characteristics, with D being size. The size effect on single bond energy e(D) is evident, while bond length h(D) is directly related with both size and materials index (m) of nanomaterials, resulting in single bond modulus y(D) always not smaller than that in bulk. Based on y(D) and coordination number consideration, Y(D) ≥ Y0 is found for some metallic materials with m = 1, and Y(D) ≤ Y0 is observed for some other materials when their m values are respectively 2.56, 4, and 4.88. Moreover, a good agreement between model predictions and other experimental or simulation results is obtained.