Cellular Automata Simulation of Dissipative Structure Formation in Heterogeneous Polymer Systems, Formation of Networks of a Dispersed Phase by Flocculation

(Received 2 November 1995, received in final form 13 November 1995, accepted 22 November 1995)

Abstract
Dissipative structures are responsible for many non-linear property changes in heterogenous polymer systems, as has been shown experimentally [1] and theoretically [2]. Using the "cellular automata" program it was possible for the first time to simulate the formation of the complex network structures formed by a complex flocculation process from dispersed particles or phases. The simulation results lead to some interesting conclusions for the behaviour of the real systems.