Systematic approach to generate near-perfect periodic continuous random network models: Application to amorphous Si3N4

A systematic method to generate periodic continuous random network models for covalent glasses is described. The method is based on the judicious choice of elementary subunits which satisfy local bonding. By connecting the subunits carefully to meet the bonding requirements of the corner atoms, an initial model with proper topological structure is formed. Randomness is introduced through the random distribution of different subunit types. The model is then relaxed by suitable potential functions to minimize the distortions. The method has been successfully applied to obtain amorphous Si3N4 models of various sizes.