Variable-charge interatomic potentials for molecular-dynamics simulations of TiO₂

An interatomic potential model has been developed for molecular-dynamics simulations of TiO₂ (rutile) based on the formalism of Streitz and Mintmire [J. Adhes. Sci. Technol. 8, 853 (1994)], in which atomic charges vary dynamically according to the generalized electronegativity equalization principle. The present model potential reproduces the vibrational density of states, the pressure-dependent static dielectric constants, the melting temperature, and the surface relaxation of the rutile crystal, as well as the cohesive energy, the lattice constants, and the elastic moduli. We find the physical properties of rutile are significantly affected by dynamic charge transfer between Ti and O atoms. The potential allows us to perform atomistic simulations on nanostructured TiO₂ with various kinds of interfaces (surfaces, grain boundaries, dislocations, etc.).