Simulation of Self-Reproducing Micelles using a Lattice-Gas Automaton

TL;DR

This paper presents a lattice-gas automaton model that accurately simulates the formation and dynamics of self-reproducing micelles, capturing both equilibrium and non-equilibrium behaviors observed in experiments.

Contribution

It introduces a novel lattice-gas automaton model that reproduces micellar self-assembly and reproduction, aligning with experimental findings.

Findings

Extended induction period before rapid micelle formation

Model accurately mimics experimental micelle production dynamics

Simulates both equilibrium and non-equilibrium properties

Abstract

We simulate self-reproducing micellar systems using a recently introduced lattice-gas automaton. This dynamical model correctly describes the equilibrium and non-equilibrium properties of mixtures of oil, water and surfactants. The simulations reported here mimic the experiments of Luisi et al. in which caprylate micelles are formed by alkaline hydrolysis of immiscible ethyl caprylate ester. As in the laboratory experiments, we find an extended induction period during which the concentration of micelles remains small; thereafter the ester is consumed very rapidly with concomitant production of micelles.