Variation of lateral tension and a new transition in model bilayers made of chain molecules

Abstract

Molecular dynamics simulations of model bilayers made of amphiphilic chain molecules dissolved in a Lennard-Jones solvent, reveal a new transition between a flat tensioned state and a foamy rough thick compressed bilayer. Variation of lateral tension with area per surfactant head undergoes unexpected and dramatic changes when the system size is substantially increased; a new transition is then found. Scaling is discussed and structure factor is reported. © 2005 American Institute of Physics.