Exact Solution of an Octagonal Random Tiling Model

Abstract

We consider the two-dimensional random tiling model introduced by Cockayne, i.e., the ensemble of all possible coverings of the plane without gaps or overlaps with squares and various hexagons. At the appropriate relative densities the correlations have eightfold rotational symmetry. We reformulate the model in terms of a random tiling ensemble with identical rectangles and isosceles triangles. The partition function of this model can be calculated by diagonalizing a transfer matrix using the Bethe Ansatz (BA). The BA equations can be solved providing exact values of the entropy and elastic constants. © 1996 The American Physical Society.