First-principles point-defect calculations for solid neutron star matter

Abstract

Formation enthalpies are calculated for a number of point-defect structures in solid neutron star matter at densities above the neutron-drip threshold. The enthalpies obtained show that an amorphous heterogeneous solid phase is formed at temperatures in a glass transition region, and is likely to persist as the star cools. Its structural differences from the homogeneous body-centred cubic lattice previously assumed make it necessary to reconsider predictions of neutron-star magnetic field evolution, and severely limit the role of conventional superfluid neutron vortex pinning in the interpretation of pulsar glitch phenomena.