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Title
Atomistic simulations of the aggregation of small aromatic molecules in homogenous and heterogenous mixtures
Author(s)
Thomas, Michael
Suarez-Martinez, Irene
Yu, Li-Juan
Chandler, Graham S
Robinson, Marc
Cherchneff, Isabelle
Talbi, Dahbia
Spagnoli, Dino
Publication Date
2020-10-07
Early Online Version
Abstract
<p>The relatively weak London dispersion forces are the only interactions that could cause aggregation between simple aromatic molecules. The use of molecular dynamics and high-level <i>ab initio</i> computer simulations has been used to describe the aggregation and interactions between molecular systems containing benzene, naphthalene and anthracene. Mixtures containing one type of molecule (homogenous) and more than one type of molecule (heterogenous) were considered. Our results indicate that as molecular weight increases so does the temperature at which aggregation will occur. In all simulations, the mechanism of aggregation is through small clusters coalescing into larger clusters. The structural analysis of the molecules within the clusters reveals that benzene will orient itself in T-shaped and parallel displaced configurations. Molecules of anthracene prefer to orient themselves in a similar manner to a bulk crystal with no T-shaped configuration observed. The aggregation of these aromatic molecules is discussed in the context of astrochemistry with particular reference to the dust formation region around stars.</p>
Publication Type
Journal Article
Source of Publication
Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics, 22(37), p. 21005-21014
Publisher
Royal Society of Chemistry
Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) 2020
2020-07-31
Place of Publication
United Kingdom
ISSN
1463-9084
1463-9076
Socio-Economic Objective (SEO) 2020
Peer Reviewed
Yes
HERDC Category Description
Peer Reviewed
Yes
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