New topologies in the phase diagram of the semi-infinite Blume-Capel model

The phase diagram of the Blume-Capel model on a semi-infinite simple cubic lattice with a (100) free surface is studied in the pair approximation of the cluster variation method. Six main topologies are found, of which two are new, due to the occurrence of a first-order surface transition in the phase with ordered bulk, separating two phases with large and small surface order parameters. The latter is a new phase and is studied in some detail, giving the behaviour of the order parameter profiles in two typical cases. A comparison is made with the results of a low temperature expansion, where these are available, showing a great increase in accuracy with respect to the mean field approximation.