Using density functional theory to construct multiphase equations of state: tin as an example

Abstract

We present a general methodology for using density functional theory (DFT) calculations as a basis for constructing multiphase equations of state (EOS). Focusing on tin as an example, we discuss the full process of generating a tabular EOS, starting from first-principles calculations and arriving at a full EOS in agreement with existing experimental data. We begin by describing DFT calculations for the five solid phases and liquid phase of tin, including cold curve, phonon, and DFT-based molecular dynamics calculations. We then discuss methods for incorporating DFT results into materials models used in OpenSesame, the program used to create a full tabular multiphase EOS. Next, we outline a general strategy for adjusting model parameters in OpenSesame to fit to a variety of experimental data, including isobaric data, isothermal data, shock data, solid-solid phase boundary measurements, and measurements of the melt curve. We end with a discussion of the advantages of using DFT data as a foundation for EOS generation and discuss potential strategies for automated EOS generation based on the fitting process highlighted in this work.