Models for the computation of opacity of mixtures

We compare four models for the partial densities of the components of mixtures. These models yield different opacities as shown on polystyrene, acrylic and polyimide in local thermodynamical equilibrium (LTE). Two of these models, the 'whole volume partial pressure' model (M1) and its modification (M2) are not thermodynamically consistent (TC). The other two models are TC and minimize free energy. M3, the 'partial 7volume equal pressure' model, uses equality of chemical potential. M4 uses commonality of free electron density. The latter two give essentially identical results in LTE, but M4's convergence is slower. M4 is easily generalized to non-LTE conditions. Non-LTE effects are shown by the variation of the Planck mean opacity of the mixtures with temperature and density.