Monte Carlo Algorithms for the Fully Frustrated XY Model

We investigate local update algorithms for the fully frustrated XY model on a square lattice. In addition to the standard updating procedures like the Metropolis or heat bath algorithm we include overrelaxation sweeps, implemented through single spin updates that preserve the energy of the configuration. The dynamical critical exponent (of order two) stays more or less unchanged. However, the integrated autocorrelation times of the algorithm can be significantly reduced.