To explain several properties of finite nuclei, infinite matter, and neutron stars in a unified way within the relativistic mean field models, it is important to extend them either with higher order couplings or with density-dependent couplings. These extensions are known to have strong impact in the high-density regime. Here we explore their role on the equation of state at densities lower than the saturation density of finite nuclei which govern the phase transitions associated with pasta structures in the crust of neutron stars.

• Received 11 November 2012

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevC.87.028801