Repeatable mechanical energy absorption of ZnO nanopillars

We show that repeatable energy absorption can be obtained via the reversible wurtzite-to-hexagonal phase transformation of ZnO nanopillars at room temperature. The effect is demonstrated using molecular dynamics simulations and available experimental data. With uniaxial compressive strains up to 22.1% along [0001] orientation, a nanopillar with lateral dimension 5.5 nm produce average specific on order 26.7 J g −1 under quasistatic cyclic loading 11.1 rapid loading. theoretical maximum 41.0 which approached sizes above 55 nm. These values are comparable widely used aluminum foams. effects inversion domain boundaries sample size absorbing capacity discussed. findings open an avenue for nanostructures in mechanical dissipation applications. • enable absorption. Inversion contribute changes configuration energy. maximum, long cycle expected high-frequency lower established.