Dynamic behaviors of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) with finite length are investigated using an analytical method. Multiple elastic shells and linearized model of van der Waals forces are used for development a comprehensive continuum dynamic model of MWCNTs. By applying Laplace transform, analytical solution for thin and thick MWCNTs under dynamic loading are obtained. Dynamic responses of 3-, 9-, and 11-layer MWCNTs under external pressure shock are examined and accuracy of results are verified by comparison the results with those obtained by numerical methods. Both displacement and stress analysis are performed for layers of MWCNTs and frequencies of oscillations are obtained. Also, effects of axial wave created by external pressure shock are studied in MWCNTs with two-dimensional analyses. Dynamic responses of MWCNTs with initial axial displacement are also proposed and the propagation of the axial wave through the length of tubes is illustrated. Furthermore, wave propagation velocity is found by analysis of time history diagram.

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