Abstract
We study the self-assembly of a system of self-propelled, Lennard-Jones particles using Brownian dynamics simulations. We examine the state diagrams of the system for different rotational diffusion coefficients of the self-propelled motion of the particles. For fast rotational diffusion, the state diagram exhibits a strong similarity to that of the equilibrium Lennard-Jones fluid. As we decrease the rotational diffusion coefficient, the state diagram is slowly transformed. Specifically, the liquid-gas coexistence region is gradually replaced by a highly dynamic percolating network state. We find significant local alignment of the particles in the percolating network state despite the absence of aligning interactions, and propose a simple mechanism to justify the formation of this novel state.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 4158-4166 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Soft Matter |
Volume | 11 |
Issue number | 21 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 7 Jun 2015 |