A simple model for predicting crystallization and melting temperatures, and its implications for phase transitions in confined volumes

摘要

We present a simple unifying model for crystallization and meltingtemperatures by showing that homogeneous nucleation and phase transformationsdriven by thickening of pre-existing surface layers are limiting conditions ofthe more general heterogeneous nucleation case. Furthermore, to a firstapproximation all these processes can be described by an extended classicalnucleation theory. The model can also be applied to phase transitiontemperatures in confined volumes, provided reliable values for the interfacialtensions within the systems are determinable. The expected melting andcrystallization temperature for any transformation pathway can then bepredicted.