Phase separation in dipolar systems: Numerical simulation

The first-order phase transition in a three-dimensional system of solid dipolar spheres is simulated by the Monte Carlo technique. It is shown that the dipole-dipole and steric interactions alone can induce the separation of a system into the low- and high- concentration phases. Additional attractive potentials need not be introduced. The phase diagram is constructed for the system of dipoles. The results of the simulation qualitatively agree with the predictions of some analytical models. (C) 2000 MAIK "Nauka/ Interperiodica".