Group-theoretical concepts are used to define a generalized transfer matrix for a substitutionally disordered material. The matrix can easily be constructed and averaged. Diagonalizing of the generalized transfer matrix truncated to finite dimensions enables averaged densities of states to be calculated for infinite systems. The method is checked against direct simulation and appears to be an accurate and reliable way of finding the density of states in systems with arbitrarily strong disorder.

• Received 8 February 1988

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.60.2093