First-order unbinding transition of an interface in two dimensions

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Abstract
A two-dimensional model describing the unbinding of an interface from an attracting substrate, induced by a defect line in the bulk, is proposed. It contains Abraham’s model as a special case. Although only short-range interactions are present, a sharp first-order unbinding transition is shown to take place. The model is formulated in terms of both the solid-on-solid model and Ising spins. Thermodynamic properties are evaluated exactly in both cases. The average interface distance from the substrate and the full magnetization profile are calculated in the solid-on-solid version. The first-order transition is discussed in light of Cahn’s wetting criterion.

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