Topology, dynamics and finite size effects of a kinetic growth model

Ramified polymerization is studied through computational simulations on the square lattice of a kinetic growth model generalized to incorporate branching and impurities. The polymer configuration is identified with a bond tree in order to examine its topology. The fractal dimensions of clusters are obtained at criticality. Simulations also allow the study of time evolution of clusters as well as the determination of time autocorrelations and dynamical critical exponents. In regard to finite size effects, a fourth-order cumulant technique is employed to estimate the critical branching probability bc and the critical exponents ν and β. Finally, for the case when impurities are not present, the surface roughness is described in terms of the Hurst exponents.