INTERFACE AMORPHIZATION - A MOLECULAR-DYNAMICS APPROACH

A two-dimensional molecular dynamics model is introduced order to obta in a better understanding of interface amorphization. We start from a monodisperse system of particles arranged on a perfect two-dimensional triangular lattice, which is divided into two separate regions. In on e of these regions the particle size is uniformly reduced, while in th e other it is enlarged, preserving the total system 'volume'. Using a whole wealth of diagnostic tools, and visualizations of the particle d istributions, a clear distinction between the bulk and the interface d isordering transition emerges. Several interesting phenomena, such as the formation of defects, hysteresis of the transition, single-layer d isplacement and grain boundary development in the vicinity of the inte rface, show up in our simulations.