Quantum states and specific heat of low-density He gas adsorbed within carbon nanotube interstitial channels: Band-structure effects and potential dependence

Abstract

We calculate the energy-band structure of a He atom trapped within the interstitial channel between closepacked nanotubes within a bundle and its influence on the specific heat of the adsorbed gas. A robust prediction of our calculations is that the contribution of the low-density adsorbed gas to the specific heat of the nanotube material shows pronounced nonmonotonic variations with temperature. These variations are shown to be closely related to the band gaps in the adsorbate density of states.

Specific heats of dilute neon inside a long single-walled carbon nanotube

“…Here we will exhibit the full calculations and continue to discuss the second question. In recent papers, Siber et al [10] treat the specific heat of dilute He atoms adsorbed in interstitial channels and grooves of carbon nanotube bundles. Here we partially follow their approach.…”