Python-based finite element code used as a universal and modular tool for electronic structure calculation

Abstrakt

Ab-initio calculations of electronic states within the density-functional framework has been performed by means of the open source finite element package SfePy (Simple Finite Elements in Python, http://sfepy.org). We describe a new robust ab-initio real-space code based on (i) density functional theory, (ii) finite element method and (iii) environment-reflecting pseudopotentials. This approach brings a new quality to solving Kohn-Sham equations, calculating electronic states, total energy, Hellmann-Feynman forces and material properties particularly for non-crystalline, non-periodic structures. The main asset of the above approach is an efficient combination of excellent convergence control of standard, universal basis used in industrially proved finite-element method, high precision of ab-initio environment-reflecting pseudopotentials, and applicability not restricted to electrically neutral periodic environment. We present also numerical examples illustrating the outputs of the method.