Abstract
We measured the recovery forces generated by a shape memory effect of plastically bent carbon nanotubes (CNTs) using a manipulator installed in a transmission electron microscope. The recovery force as estimated with the moment is as high as 120 aN m for a curvature of 0.025 nm-1 of the plastic bend. It is indicated that recovery force depends on bending curvature: a larger curvature generates a larger recovery force. This result is discussed in terms of the gliding rate of topological defects to be repaired.