On the theory of homogeneous nucleation and spinodal decomposition in condensation from the vapor phase

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
On the basis of the assumptions of statistical theories, nonlinear expressions for some of the fundamental equations of nucleation theory have been derived. The results apply to any of the statistical theories but are specifically applied to the modification of the original Lothe–Pound theory. In the range of usual supersaturations the numerical results of the linearized Lothe–Pound theory (LLP) differ only slightly from those of the nonlinear Lothe–Pound theory (ELP), but the difference increases with degree of supersaturation. All fundamental equations of nucleation theory can be expressed in terms of a dimensionless energy parameter that also defines the condition of onset of spontaneous condensation without nucleation, expected to occur at higher supersaturations. Furthermore, under the premises of the present theory the growing clusters will pass an intermediate stable stage at a specific radius before reaching the size of a stable critical nucleus. This effect should result in changes in the relaxation time for establishing steady-state of nucleation.

This publication has 35 references indexed in Scilit: