Simulation studies of fluid critical behaviour

Abstract

We review and discuss recent advances in the simulation of bulk critical phenomena in model fluids. In particular we emphasise the extensions to finite-size scaling theory needed to cope with the lack of symmetry between coexisting fluid phases. The consequences of this asymmetry for simulation measurements of quantities such as the particle density and the heat capacity are pointed out and the relationship to experiment is discussed. A general simulation strategy based on the finite-size scaling theory is described and its utility illustrated via Monte-Carlo studies of the Lennard-Jones fluid and a two-dimensional spin fluid model. Recent applications to critical polymer blends and solutions are also briefly reviewed. Finally we consider the outlook for future simulation work in the field.