Tuning multi-lengthscale structures in fluids via cooling and heating cycles

Using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations we study the time evolution of domain structures in a single-component fluid upon alternate cycles of cooling and heating. Initially, the fluid is kept at a high temperature above the critical temperature T<inf>c</inf> of a vapor-liquid transition and is instantaneously cooled to a temperature below T<inf>c</inf>. Next, the fluid is subjected to multiple alternate cycles of heating and cooling. The resulting domains are characterized in terms of the structure factor. Formation of interesting multi-lengthscale structure is observed. Our MD results for fluids are compared to existing reports in literature from Monte-Carlo simulation of solids.