  In this paper, we investigate, by molecular dynamics simulations, the
mechanical properties of a new carbon nanostructure, termed graphene nanochain,
constructed by sewing up pristine or twisted graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) and
interlocking the obtained nanorings. The obtained tensile strength of
defect-free nanochain is a little lower than that of pristine GNRs and the
fracture point is earlier than that of the GNRs. The effects of length, width
and twist angle of the constituent GNRs on the mechanical performance are
analyzed. Furthermore, defect effect is investigated and in some high defect
coverage cases, an interesting mechanical strengthening-like behavior is
observed. This structure supports the concept of long-cable manufacturing and
advanced material design can be achieved by integration of nanochain with other
nanocomposites. The technology used to construct the nanochain is
experimentally feasible, inspired by the recent demonstrations of atomically
precise fabrications of GNRs with complex structures [Phys. Rev.
Lett,2009,\textbf{102},205501; Nano Lett., 2010, \textbf{10},4328;
Nature,2010,\textbf{466},470]
