Possible Existence of an Extraordinary Phase in the Driven Lattice Gas

TL;DR

This paper presents simulation evidence suggesting a new low-temperature phase in a driven lattice gas, characterized by multiple-strip configurations, which could clarify longstanding debates on its critical behavior.

Contribution

It introduces a potential new phase in the driven Ising lattice gas and proposes a quantitative criterion for its existence, advancing understanding of non-equilibrium phase behavior.

Findings

Indication of a new low-temperature phase with multiple-strip configurations

Proposal of a quantitative criterion for phase existence

Potential resolution of controversy over critical properties

Abstract

We report recent simulation results which might indicate the existence of a new low-temperature "phase" in an Ising lattice gas, driven into a non-equilibrium steady state by an external field. It appears that this "phase", characterized by multiple-strip configurations, is selected when square systems are used to approach the thermodynamic limit. We propose a quantitative criterion for the existence of such a "phase". If confirmed, its observation may resolve a long-standing controversy over the critical properties of the driven Ising lattice gas.