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Sequential phase transitions and transient structured fluctuations in two-dimensional systems with a high-density
Linsey Nowack1, Stuart A Rice1
1Department of Chemistry and the Chicago Center for Theoretical Chemistry, James Franck Institute, The University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA.
The Journal of Chemical Physics
|January 3, 2020
Summary
Studies reveal universal packing mechanisms in 2D systems favoring Kagome lattices. Simulations show the Süto theorem isn't required for multiple lattice structures, and phase transitions involve complex symmetries.
Area of Science:
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Statistical Mechanics
- Materials Science
Background:
- Two-dimensional (2D) systems exhibit diverse phase behaviors with changing density.
- Kagome lattice structures are of interest due to their unique properties and potential applications.
- Understanding phase transitions and packing mechanisms is crucial for designing materials with specific properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate density-dependent phase sequences in 2D systems with specific repulsive potentials.
- Analyze transient fluctuations near liquid-to-Kagome and string-to-Kagome phase transitions.
- Evaluate the universality of packing mechanisms and the necessity of the Süto theorem.
Main Methods:
- Computational simulations of 2D particle systems using potentials from Truskett (2016) and Torquato (2013).
- Analysis of phase sequences at varying densities.
- Characterization of transient fluctuations and symmetries during phase transitions.
Main Results:
- Identified commonalities in phase sequences across different 2D systems, suggesting universal packing mechanisms.
- Demonstrated that the Süto theorem is not a prerequisite for supporting multiple lattice structures.
- Observed Kagome symmetry in fluctuations near the liquid-to-Kagome transition and mixed symmetries during string-to-Kagome transitions.
- Elucidated distinct pathways for string-to-Kagome transitions, involving honeycomb intermediates or merging coiled strings.
Conclusions:
- 2D systems exhibit universal tendencies towards specific packing arrangements as density increases.
- The Süto theorem is not universally required for the emergence of multiple lattice structures.
- Phase transitions to Kagome lattices involve complex symmetry changes and distinct structural pathways, sometimes leading to imperfect Kagome phases.
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