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Modeling the influence of the external electric fields on water viscosity inside carbon nanotubes

  • Regular Article - Flowing Matter
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Abstract

Equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations were performed to explore the effects of external electric fields and confinement on water properties inside various carbon nanotubes (CNTs). Using different GHz electric field frequencies as well as various constant electric field strengths, the radial distribution function and density profile were investigated, by which the impact of the electric fields and confinement on the water structure are revealed. The results indicated water molecules inside the CNT form layered structures due to topological confinement applying external electric fields can disturb this ordered water molecules structure and increase the viscosity of confined water, particularly in the case of CNTs with a radius less than 13.5 Å. Conversely, for CNTs with a radius greater than13.5 Å, the viscosity decreases under the influence of external oscillating or constant electric fields.

Graphical abstract

How dose the synergism of confinement and external electric fields affect the water properties inside the CNTs?

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Data availability

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

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  1. Department of Physics, University of Isfahan, Isfahan, 8174673441, Iran

    Mojtaba Farrokhbin & Amir Lohrasebi

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  1. Mojtaba Farrokhbin
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Correspondence to Amir Lohrasebi.

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Farrokhbin, M., Lohrasebi, A. Modeling the influence of the external electric fields on water viscosity inside carbon nanotubes. Eur. Phys. J. E 46, 93 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1140/epje/s10189-023-00357-9

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