An on-lattice model for two-dimensional melting

Abstract

We introduce an on-lattice minimal model of two-dimensional melting, a clock model with vacancies with control parameters temperature, chemical potential and external field. We study the full phase diagram using cluster Monte Carlo, Tensor Network Renormalisation Group and selfconsistent mean field methods. A non-universal ensemble of melting scenarios is observed including the KTHNY scenario of two Berezinskii-Kosterlitz-Thouless phase transitions delimiting a quasilong-range ordered phase. The upper transition evolves into first-order transition in analogy with simulations on hard and soft discs and at low chemical potential there is a single transition between ordered high density and disordered low density phases. The evolution is via a special tricritical point that is accessed in detail. This work therefore provides a framework for understanding the crossover between 2D melting scenarios and offers insights into the behavior of realistic systems.