Model for the coagulation of carbon clusters at high densities and temperatures

A. two-dimensional formulation of the molecular dynamics method is used to model the coagulation of carbon particles at the high temperatures and dens ities corresponding to conditions behind a detonation front. When small par ticles interact, they coalesce in the manner of liquid drops. Particles gre ater than 3 nm in size adhere in faces while retaining their form. Surface atoms, however, are capable of migrating among coupled particles, thereby f acilitating their bonding. Calculations reveal the existence of strong comp ression and rarefaction waves with amplitudes of up to 30 GPa in the intera cting particles.