Local inhomogeneity in asymmetric simple exclusion processes with extended objects

Totally asymmetric simple exclusion processes (TASEP) with particles which occupy more than one lattice site and with a local inhomogeneity far away from the boundaries are investigated. These non-equilibrium processes are relevant for the understanding of many biological and chemical phenomena. The steady-state phase diagrams, currents and bulk densities are calculated using a simple approximate theory and extensive Monte Carlo computer simulations. It is found that the phase diagram for TASEP with a local inhomogeneity is qualitatively similar to homogeneous models, although the phase boundaries are significantly shifted. The complex dynamics is discussed in terms of domain-wall theory for driven lattice systems.