QUANTUM FLUIDS IN NANOPORES

Abstract

We describe calculations of the properties of quantum fluids inside nanotubes of various sizes. Very small radius (R) pores confine the gases to a line, so that a one-dimensional (1D) approximation is applicable; the low temperature behavior of 1D 4 He is discussed. Somewhat larger pores permit the particles to move off axis, resulting eventually in a transition to a cylindrical shell phase—a thin film near the tube wall; we explored this behavior for H 2. At even larger R ~ 1 nm , both the shell phase and an axial phase are present. Results showing strong binding of cylindrical liquids 4 He and 3 He are discussed.