Cell dynamics simulations of block copolymers

Abstract

Cell dynamics simulations are a powerful tool to simulate kinetic processes in phase separating systems. Here we review the technique and its application to block copolymers. Its advantages and disadvantages compared to other simulation methods for block copolymer structure and dynamics and dynamics are reviewed. Results on the dynamics of microphase separation and interface propagation, and on the rate of order-order phase transitions are reviewed. The use of the method to model certain shear-induced structural and flow effects is also summarised.