Real-space orthogonal projector-augmented-wave method

Abstract

The projector augmented wave (PAW) method of Bl\"ochl makes smooth but non-orthogonal orbitals. Here we show how to make PAW orthogonal, using a cheap transformation of the wave-functions. We show that the resulting Orthogonal PAW (OPAW), applied for DFT, reproduces (for a large variety of solids) band gaps from the ABINIT package. OPAW combines the underlying orthogonality of norm-conserving potentials with the large grid spacings and small spectral range in PAW. The OPAW framework can also be combined with other electronic structure theory methods.