How do clusters in phase-separating active matter systems grow? A study for Vicsek activity in systems undergoing vapor-solid transition

Via molecular dynamics simulations, we have studied the kinetics of vapor-solid phase transition in an active matter model in which self-propulsion is introduced via the well-known Vicsek rule. The overall density of the particles is chosen in such a way that the evolution morphology consists of disconnected clusters that are defined as regions of high density of particles. Our focus has been on understanding the influence of the above-mentioned self-propulsion on structure and growth of these clusters by comparing the results with those for the passive limit of the model that also exhibits vapor-solid transition. While in the passive case growth occurs due to a standard diffusive mechanism, the Vicsek activity leads to very rapid growth, via a process that is practically equivalent to the ballistic aggregation mechanism. The emerging growth law in the latter case has been accurately estimated and explained by invoking information on velocity and structural aspects of the clusters into a relevant theory. Some of these results are also discussed with reference to a model for active Brownian particles.

Automated summary

Through molecular dynamics simulations, the study investigates the influence of self-propulsion on the vapor-solid phase transition in an active matter model, finding that Vicsek activity leads to very rapid cluster growth.