A bending-torsion theory for thin and ultrathin rods as a $\Gamma$-limit of atomistic models

Abstract

The purpose of this note is to establish two continuum theories for the bending and torsion of inextensible rods as $\Gamma$-limits of 3D atomistic models. In our derivation we study simultaneous limits of vanishing rod thickness $h$ and interatomic distance $\varepsilon$. First, we set up a novel theory for ultrathin rods composed of finitely many atomic fibres ($\varepsilon\sim h$), which incorporates surface energy and new discrete terms in the limiting functional. This can be thought of as a contribution to the mechanical modelling of nanowires. Second, we treat the case where $\varepsilon\ll h$ and recover a nonlinear rod model $-$ the modern version of Kirchhoff's rod theory.