Shaking-induced crystalization of dense sphere packings

Shinde D. P., Mehta A., Barker G. C.. (2014)

Physical Review E, 89, 2204-2204

We describe simulations carried out to investigate spontaneous crystallization in dense sphere packings. A hybrid Monte Carlo method algorithm is used to simulate the shaking of spheres at various amplitudes. As the system of hard spheres is shaken, its packing fraction increases. We observe a number of crystallizing transitions, which lead to end states comprising long-lasting partially ordered, single, and mixed fcc and hcp clusters. Global and local bond orientation order metrics characterize the competitive behaviour of the clusters. We suggest that the shaking intensity is an important determinant of the detailed structure of the final state.

Physical Review E, 89, 2204-2204

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