On the Kubo-Greenwood Model for Electron Conductivity

TL;DR

This paper critically examines the theoretical foundations and assumptions of the widely used Kubo-Greenwood model for calculating electron conductivity, especially its relation to equilibrium DFT and static ions.

Contribution

It provides a detailed analysis of the justification and context of the Kubo-Greenwood model, clarifying its theoretical basis and assumptions.

Findings

Connects Kubo-Greenwood to equilibrium DFT

Discusses the assumption of static ions

Analyzes the model's theoretical validity

Abstract

Currently, the most common method to calculate transport properties for materials under extreme conditions is based on the phenomenological Kubo-Greenwood method. The results of an inquiry into the justification and context of that model are summarized here. Specifically, the basis for its connection to equilibrium DFT and the assumption of static ions are discussed briefly.