R-matrix calculations of low-energy electron alkane collisions

Ab initio electron scattering calculations are presented for methane, ethane and propane with particular emphasis on elastic cross sections. Calculations are performed with the Quantemol-N expert system which runs the UK polyatomic R-matrix code. These calculations are presented which systematically increase the size of the coupled states expansion which is used to represent polarisation effects in the scattering wave function. Agreement with experimental measurements is obtained provided sufficient coupled states are included in the expansion. Whether these coupled states expansions really converge the polarisation potential and the prospects for further calculations are discussed.