Melting point behavior of low dimensional systems

Abstract

In this paper an attempt has been made to give a detailed review of the melting point characteristics of materials and their variatio from bulk to nano regime. A proper understanding of this property is important both from science and engineering aspects. Main focus has been given on the superheating phenomena which means rise in melting temperature of a material and how this can be achieved. Both the theoretical developments done so far supported by enough experimental evidence have been presented in this work in a chronological manner. Important models such as Surface Area Difference model (SAD), Liquid Drop Model (LDM) have been discussed in detail and the role of cohesive energy and surface energy in determining the melting behavior of nano-systems has been emphasized.