Modeling Fluid Polyamorphism Through a Maximum-Valence Approach

Abstract: We suggest a simple model to describe polyamorphism in single-component fluids using a maximum-valence approach. The model contains three types of interactions: i) atoms attract each other by van der Waals forces that generate a liquid-gas transition at low pressures, ii) atoms may form covalent bonds that induce association, and iii) bonded atoms attract or repel each other stronger than non-bonded atoms, thus generating liquid-liquid separation. As an example, we qualitatively compare this model with the behavior of liquid sulfur and show that condition (iii) generates a liquid-liquid phase transition in addition to the liquid-gas phase transition.