Effect of size and shape on the elastic modulus of metal nanowires

Abstract Size effects decisively influence the properties of materials at small length scales. In context mechanical properties, trend ‘smaller is stronger’ has been well established. This statement refers to an almost universal increased strength with decreasing size. A strong size on elastic also widely reported, albeit without a clear trend. However, nanostructure shape critically neglected. Here, we demonstrate profound and example gold nanowires. The are determined using in-situ testing in scanning transmission electron microscopy by means resonance excitation uniaxial tension. combination bending tensile load types allows for independent correlative calculation Young's modulus. We find both cases softening as stiffening, depending interplay between wires. Graphic abstract