FREE-VOLUME PROPERTIES OF A SIMULATED LIPID-MEMBRANE

In this paper, an extensive analysis of free volume related properties of a lipid membrane is given. Using percolation theory, and comparing the free volume properties to those of a soft polymer, additional ins ights are obtained. The analyses are discussed within the framework of the four region model. It is concluded that the four regions have ver y different free volume properties. The region containing the dense pa rt of the lipid tails resembles a soft polymer membrane to a large ext ent. The middle part of the membrane is more similar to a low density alkane. The consequences of the computed free volume properties on the permeation process of small penetrants are discussed. (C) 1996 Americ an Institute of physics.