On certain applications of gradient nanochemomechanics: deformation and fracture of LIB and SGS

Abstract

Abstract The term gradient nano-chemo-mechanics was introduced to encompass models incorporating higher order couplings between deformation and chemistry at the nanoscale. Along these lines, the article first reviews the basics of a robust theoretical framework developed for such processes focusing on elasticity and diffusion. The classical laws for Hookean deformation and Fickean transport are modified to include extra Laplacian terms and corresponding internal lengths modeling nonlocal interactions. Then, special cases are considered to describe deformation and fracture aspects of new energy materials; namely Li-ion battery (LIB) nanostructured anodes and disclinated metallic microcrystals (DMC). Both of these material systems are characterized by a high degree of spatial gradient structures (SGS) with extended surface for energy storage and catalysis applications.