Peas in a pod: quasi-one-dimensional C60 molecules in a nanotube

Abstract

We evaluate the equation of state of the quasi-one-dimensional (1D) phase of C60 molecules in small carbon nanotubes, nicknamed ``peas in a pod''. The chemical potential and 1D pressure are evaluated as functions of the temperature and density, initially with the approximation of nearest neighbor interactions and classical statistical mechanics. Quantum corrections and long-range interaction corrections are discussed, as are the effects of interactions with neighboring peapods. Transition phenomena involving the 3D coupling are evaluated.