The 3D narrow capture problem for traps with semipermeable interfaces

TL;DR

This paper analyzes the narrow capture problem for a Brownian particle in 3D with semipermeable spherical traps, deriving asymptotic formulas for capture probabilities and MFPT, and linking trap properties to effective capacitance.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive asymptotic framework for traps with semipermeable interfaces, extending narrow capture analysis to include permeability, discontinuities, and non-Markovian effects.

Findings

Semipermeable membranes reduce trap capacitance compared to fully absorbing traps.

Derived asymptotic formulas for splitting probabilities and MFPT in the small-trap limit.

Established a link between trap properties and effective capacitance for generalized capture mechanisms.

Abstract

In this paper we analyze the narrow capture problem for a single Brownian particle diffusing in a three-dimensional (3D) bounded domain containing a set of small, spherical traps. The boundary surface of each trap is taken to be a semipermeable membrane. That is, the continuous flux across the interface is proportional to an associated jump discontinuity in the probability density. The constant of proportionality is identified with the permeability $\kappa$. In addition, we allow for discontinuities in the diffusivity and chemical potential across each interface; the latter introduces a directional bias. We also assume that the particle can be absorbed (captured) within the interior of each trap at some Poisson rate $\gamma$. In the small-trap limit, we use matched asymptotics and Green's function methods to calculate the splitting probabilities and unconditional MFPT to be absorbed by one of the traps. However, the details of the analysis depend on how various parameters scale with the characteristic trap radius $\epsilon$. Under the scalings $\gamma=O(1/\epsilon^2)$ and $\kappa=O(1/\epsilon)$, we show that the semipermeable membrane reduces the effective capacitance $\calC$ of each spherical trap compared to the standard example of totally absorbing traps. Finally, we consider the unidirectional limit in which each interface only allows particles to flow into a trap. The traps then act as partially absorbing surfaces with a constant reaction rate $\kappa$. Combining asymptotic analysis with the encounter-based formulation of partially reactive surfaces, we show how a generalized surface absorption mechanism (non-Markovian) can be analyzed in terms of the capacitances $\calC$. We thus establish that a wide range of narrow capture problems can be characterized in terms of the effective capacitances of the traps.