Predicting random close packing of binary hard-disk mixtures via third-virial-based parameters

We propose a simple and accurate approach to estimate the random close packing (RCP) fraction of binary hard-disk mixtures. By introducing a parameter based on the mixture's reduced third virial coefficient-which effectively captures three-body correlations and excluded-area constraints-we show that the RCP fraction depends nearly linearly on this parameter, leading to a near-universal collapse of simulation data over a wide range of size ratios and compositions. Comparisons with previous models by Brouwers and Zaccone indicate that the present approach provides more accurate and consistent predictions. The method can be naturally extended to polydisperse mixtures with continuous size distributions and is structurally consistent with the surplus equation-of-state formulation, offering a compact framework for understanding the near universality of RCP in hard-disk systems.

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Publication Details

Journal
The Journal of Chemical Physics
Published
2026-03-23
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0328013
Primary Topic
Material Dynamics and Properties
Type
article
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article

Predicting random close packing of binary hard-disk mixtures via third-virial-based parameters

Mariano López de Haro, Andrés Santos
The Journal of Chemical Physics
Material Dynamics and Properties
article

Predicting random close packing of binary hard-disk mixtures via third-virial-based parameters

Mariano López de Haro, Andrés Santos
article en

Abstract

We propose a simple and accurate approach to estimate the random close packing (RCP) fraction of binary hard-disk mixtures. By introducing a parameter based on the mixture's reduced third virial coefficient-which effectively captures three-body correlations and excluded-area constraints-we show that the RCP fraction depends nearly linearly on this parameter, leading to a near-universal collapse of simulation data over a wide range of size ratios and compositions. Comparisons with previous models by Brouwers and Zaccone indicate that the present approach provides more accurate and consistent predictions. The method can be naturally extended to polydisperse mixtures with continuous size distributions and is structurally consistent with the surplus equation-of-state formulation, offering a compact framework for understanding the near universality of RCP in hard-disk systems.

The Journal of Chemical PhysicsVol. 164(12)
Government of Extremadura (ES), Instituto Tecnológico y de Energías Renovables (ES), Universidad de Extremadura (ES)
Openalex Percentile: Top 13%
Material Dynamics and Properties
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Predicting random close packing of binary hard-disk mixtures via third-virial-based parameters — Mariano López de Haro, Andrés Santos · The Journal of Chemical Physics (2026) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS