Monte Carlo study of phase transitions in an Ising model superlattice

Abstract

An importance sampling Monte Carlo method has been used to simulate L×L×nD Ising superlattices consisting of n alternating layers of ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic material each of which is D atomic planes thick. Spins within each plane are coupled ferromagnetically and the interface interations are assumed to be ferromagnetic. From data on layer properties, the phase diagram is determined as a function of temperature and magnetic field. A series of phase transitions and tricritical points are found.