Convergence rate for numerical computation of the lattice Green's function

Flexible boundary-condition methods couple an isolated defect to bulk through the bulk lattice Green's function. Direct computation of the lattice Green's function requires projecting out the singular subspace of uniform displacements and forces for the infinite lattice. We calculate the convergence rates for elastically isotropic and anisotropic cases for three different techniques: relative displacement, elastic Green's function correction, and discontinuity correction. The discontinuity correction has the most rapid convergence for the general case.

Prediction of dislocation cores in aluminum from density functional theory

The strain field of isolated screw and edge dislocation cores in aluminum are calculated using density-functional theory and a flexible boundary condition method. Nye tensor density contours and differential displacement fields are used to accurately bound Shockley partial separation distances. Our results of 5-7.5 A (screw) and 7.0-9.5 A (edge) eliminate uncertainties resulting from the wide range of previous results based on Peierls-Nabarro and atomistic methods. Favorable agreement of the predicted cores with limited experimental measurements demonstrates the need for quantum mechanical treatment of dislocation cores.

New mechanism for the alpha to omega martensitic transformation in pure titanium

We propose a new direct mechanism for the pressure driven alpha-->omega martensitic transformation in pure titanium. A systematic algorithm enumerates all possible pathways whose energy barriers are evaluated. A new, homogeneous pathway emerges with a barrier at least 4 times lower than other pathways. The pathway is shown to be favorable in any nucleation model.