Clusters in nuclear matter and the equation of state for astrophysical applications

Thermodynamic properties and the composition of dense matter are affected strongly by correlations leading to the formation of nuclei at densities below nuclear saturation density. These features of the equation of state (EoS) are essential in astrophysical applications, e.g. the simulation of core-collapse supernovae. Theoretical approaches to consider correlation effects on different levels of approximation are discussed. A generalized relativistic density functional approach is presented that exhibits the correct limits at low and high densities.