Espriu, D. (Domènec)Prats Ferrer, Aleix2011-07-072011-07-0720041539-3755https://hdl.handle.net/2445/18724In this paper, we study dynamical aspects of the two-dimensional (2D) gonihedric spin model using both numerical and analytical methods. This spin model has vanishing microscopic surface tension and it actually describes an ensemble of loops living on a 2D surface. The self-avoidance of loops is parametrized by a parameter ¿. The ¿=0 model can be mapped to one of the six-vertex models discussed by Baxter, and it does not have critical behavior. We have found that allowing for ¿¿0 does not lead to critical behavior either. Finite-size effects are rather severe, and in order to understand these effects, a finite-volume calculation for non-self-avoiding loops is presented. This model, like his 3D counterpart, exhibits very slow dynamics, but a careful analysis of dynamical observables reveals nonglassy evolution (unlike its 3D counterpart). We find, also in this ¿=0 case, the law that governs the long-time, low-temperature evolution of the system, through a dual description in terms of defects. A power, rather than logarithmic, law for the approach to equilibrium has been found.11 p.application/pdfeng(c) The American Physical Society, 2004Física estadísticaTermodinàmicaSistemes dinàmics diferenciablesPropietats magnètiquesStatistical physicsThermodynamicsDifferentiable dynamical systemsMagnetic propertiesinfo:eu-repo/semantics/article524280info:eu-repo/semantics/openAccess