Quick search Find article
Quick search
Find article

Designing meaningful density functional theory calculations in materials science—a primer

REVIEW ARTICLE

Ann E Mattsson1, Peter A Schultz1, Michael P Desjarlais2, Thomas R Mattsson2 and Kevin Leung3

Show affiliations


TOPICAL REVIEW

Density functional theory (DFT) methods for calculating the quantum mechanical ground states of condensed matter systems are now a common and significant component of materials research. The growing importance of DFT reflects the development of sufficiently accurate functionals, efficient algorithms and continuing improvements in computing capabilities. As the materials problems to which DFT is applied have become large and complex, so have the sets of calculations necessary for investigating a given problem. Highly versatile, powerful codes exist to serve the practitioner, but designing useful simulations is a complicated task, involving intricate manipulation of many variables, with many pitfalls for the unwary and the inexperienced. We discuss several of the most important issues that go into designing a meaningful DFT calculation. We emphasize the necessity of investigating these issues and reporting the critical details.


PACS

71.15.Mb Density functional theory, local density approximation, gradient and other corrections

61.72.Bb Theories and models of crystal defects

61.72.J- Point defects and defect clusters

Subjects

Condensed matter: electrical, magnetic and optical

Condensed matter: structural, mechanical & thermal

Dates

Issue 1 (January 2005)

Received 9 July 2004, in final form 8 October 2004

Published 18 November 2004



View by subject




Export








Please login to access our web services, or create an account if you don't yet have one.

You must have cookies enabled in your web browser to be able to login.

Username
Password

Forgotten your password? Get a new one here.