Field-theoretic computer simulation methods for polymers and complex fluids

We review a class of new computer simulation methods for polymeric fluids and other soft condensed matter systems that are based on an underlying field-theoretic description. These methods, while still in an early stage of development, show considerable promise for studying the equilibrium properties of many-component systems capable of intricate self-assembly, such as solutions and blends containing block and graft copolymers. Field-theoretic simulation methods also provide a great deal of flexibility in model building and coarse graining, and appear to be particularly well suited to treat systems with soft, long-range interactions, such as polyelectrolytes. We attempt to connect various related theoretical approaches, such as self-consistent field theory and dynamic density functional theory, within a common framework.