Equation of state of dense asymmetric nuclear matter

Abstract

Relativistic Dirac-Brueckner calculations, based on a one-boson-exchange interaction, are presented for the equation of state of asymmetric nuclear matter. For decreasing values of the ratio Z/A it is shown that the saturation shifts to lower densities and the compression modulus at saturation drops. however, at high densities for all values of Z/A a stiff equation of state is observed, in contrast to the outcome of supernova calculations. The possibility of the occurrence of a ${\mathrm{\ensuremath{\pi}}}^{\mathrm{\ensuremath{-}}}$ condensate is discussed.