Strong geometric frustration in model glassformers

Abstract

We consider three popular model glassformers, the Kob-Andersen and Wahnstr\"om binary Lennard-Jones models and weakly polydisperse hard spheres. Although these systems exhibit a range of fragilities, all feature a rather similar behaviour in their local structure approaching dynamic arrest. In particular we use the dynamic topological cluster classification to extract a locally favoured structure which is particular to each system. These structures form percolating networks, however in all cases there is a strong decoupling between structural and dynamic lengthscales. We suggest that the lack of growth of the structural lengthscale may be related to strong geometric frustration.