On structural transitions in nanoparticles

Abstract

Using two independent computer programs based on isothermal molecular dynamics method, we studied size effects during the melting and crystallization of Lennard-Jones nanoparticles and metallic clusters, the interaction in which was described by the cooperative potentials. We found that at nanoparticle radii exceeding a certain characteristic value, the melting point of nanoparticles is higher than their crystallization temperature.