Close-packed structure dynamics with finite-range interaction: computational mechanics with individual layer interaction

This is the second contribution in a series of papers dealing with dynamical models in equilibrium theories of polytypism. A Hamiltonian introduced by Ahmad & Khan [Phys. Status Solidi B (2000), 218, 425–430] avoids the unphysical assignment of interaction terms to fictitious entities given by spins in the Hägg coding of the stacking arrangement. In this paper an analysis of polytype generation and disorder in close-packed structures is made for such a Hamiltonian. Results are compared with a previous analysis using the Ising model. Computational mechanics is the framework under which the analysis is performed. The competing effects of disorder and structure, as given by entropy density and excess entropy, respectively, are discussed. It is argued that the Ahmad & Khan model is simpler and predicts a larger set of polytypes than previous treatments.