Computer simulation study of a two-dimensional nematogenic lattice model based on the Gruhn–Hess interaction potential

Abstract

We consider a nematogenic lattice model, associated with a 2-dimensional lattice; the nearest-neighbour interaction potential, proposed by Gruhn and Hess [Z. Naturforsch. A 51 (1996) 1], is defined via an approximate mapping from the elastic free-energy density, and has already been studied by simulation in 3 dimensions [S. Romano, Int. J. Mod. Phys. B 12 (1998) 2305]. The present simulation results show that the model produces homeotropic anchoring, and a weaker uniaxial orientational order, now surviving up to temperatures higher than the transition temperature of the 3-dimensional counterpart, possibly at all finite temperatures.