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Scaling and mean-field-like behaviour in phase separation processes

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Zeitschrift für Physik B Condensed Matter

Abstract

Extensive Monte Carlo calculations are used to study the still not well understood process of phase separation in binary systems. The results show that for a separation dominated by long-wavelength fluctuations a mean-field description holds in certain concentration regions. This, however, is only true for short times after the system has been brought into a non-equilibrium state. A crucial parameter is the interaction range. It determines the region and the time where the mean field description is valid. At later times the structure factor exhibits dynamical scaling. Scaling is also investigated for the metastable states. The results are applicable to polymer blends with long chains or binary alloys with long-range forces.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institut für Physik, Johannes-Gutenberg-Universität Mainz, Postfach 3980, D-6500, Mainz, Germany

    Dieter W. Heermann

  2. Institut für Festkörperforschung, Kernforschungsanlage Jülich GmbH, Postfach 1913, D-5170, Jülich 1, Germany

    Dieter W. Heermann

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Heermann, D.W. Scaling and mean-field-like behaviour in phase separation processes. Z. Physik B - Condensed Matter 61, 311–323 (1985). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01317798

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01317798

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