A review on the application of modified continuum models in modeling and simulation of nanostructures

Abstract: Analysis of the mechanical behavior of nanostructures has been very challenging. Surface energy and nonlocal elasticity of materials have been incorporated into the traditional continuum analysis to create modified continuum mechanics models. This paper reviews recent advancements in the applications of such modified continuum models in nanostructures such as nanotubes, nanowires, nanobeams, graphenes, and nanoplates. A variety of models for these nanostructures under static and dynamic loadings are mentioned and reviewed. Applications of surface energy and nonlocal elasticity in analysis of piezoelectric nanomaterials are also mentioned. This paper provides a comprehensive introduction of the development of this area and inspires further applications of modified continuum models in modeling nanomaterials and nanostructures. Graphic abstract: [Figure not available: see fulltext.]