Physics – Atomic and Molecular Clusters
Scientific paper
2008-07-28
Physics
Atomic and Molecular Clusters
24 pages, 8 figures
Scientific paper
Phase transition in fullerenes C60 and C240 are investigated by means of constant-temperature molecular dynamics simulations. In the phase transition region, the assembly (and fragmentation) of the C60 cage from (and to) the gaseous state is demonstrated via the dynamical coexistence of two phases. In this critical region, the fullerene system is seen to continuously oscillate between the carbon cage (the solid phase) and the state of carbon dimers and short chains (the gas phase). These oscillations correspond to consecutive disintegration and formation of the fullerene. Furthermore, the temperature-dependent heat capacity of the fullerene features a prominent peak, signifying the finite system analogue of a first-order phase transition. The simulations were conducted for 500 ns using a topologically-constrained pairwise forcefield which was developed for this work. Results of the simulations were supplemented by a statistical mechanics analysis to account for entropy and pressure corrections, corresponding to experimental conditions. These corrections lead to a phase transition temperature of 3800-4200 K for pressure 10-100 kPa, in good agreement with available experimental values.
Greiner Walter
Hussien Adilah
Solov'yov Andrey
Yakubovich Alexander
No associations
LandOfFree
Phase transitions in fullerenes: Fragmentation and reassembly of the carbon cage does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.
If you have personal experience with Phase transitions in fullerenes: Fragmentation and reassembly of the carbon cage, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Phase transitions in fullerenes: Fragmentation and reassembly of the carbon cage will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-313121