Transition of a binary solution into an inhomogeneous phase

ABSTRACT

The thermodynamics of phase transitions of binary solutions into spatially inhomogeneous one-dimensional states is studied theoretically by taking into account nonlinear effects. It is shown that below the spinodal decomposition temperature there first occurs a phase stratification, and at a lower temperature, after reaching the maximum possible stratification, there occurs a second-order transition into the phase with concentration waves. The contribution of inhomogeneity to the entropy and heat capacity of phases is calculated and the phase diagram in the coordinates temperature – average concentration is constructed.

KEYWORDS:

• Binary solution
• concentration
• stratification
• concentration waves
• phase diagram
• spinodal

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).