First principles estimate of finite size effects in quark-gluon plasma formation

Using lattice simulations of quenched QCD we estimate the finite size effects present when a gluon plasma equilibrates in a slab geometry, i.e., finite width but large transverse dimensions. Significant differences are observed in the free energy density for the slab when compared with bulk behavior. A small shift in the critical temperature is also seen. The free energy required to liberate heavy quarks relative to bulk is measured using Polyakov loops; the additional free energy required is on the order of 30{endash}40 MeV at (2{endash}3)T{sub c}. thinsp {copyright} {ital 1999} {ital The American Physical Society}