Actuation of a suspended nano-graphene sheet by impact with an argon cluster

Using a molecular dynamics simulation, we examine the actuation of nanodrums consisting of a single graphene sheet. The membrane of the nanodrum, which contains 190 carbon atoms, is bent by collision with a cluster consisting of 10 argon atoms. The choice of an appropriate cluster velocity enables nanometre deformation of the membrane in sub-picosecond time without rupturing the graphene sheet. Theoretical results predict that, if an adsorbed molecule exists on the graphene sheet, the quick deformation due to the impact with the cluster can break the weak bonding between the adsorbed molecule and the graphene sheet and release the molecule from the surface; this suggests that this system has attractive potential applications for purposes of molecular ejection.