Theoretical Study of Size Effect on Melting Entropy and Enthalpy of Sn, Ag, Cu, and In Nanoparticles

Abstract

The size effect of small particles has been extensively studied from a theoretical as well as experimental point of view. However, the size-dependence of melting entropy and enthalpy of nanostructures has not been fully explored. In the current study, considering the effect induced by atomic packing factor of different crystal structures, a modified formula is put forward to predict the size-dependent depression of melting entropy and enthalpy associated with the metallic nanoparticles based on Kumar and Sharma model. We have studied the melting entropy and enthalpy of Sn, Ag, Cu, and In nanoparticles according to the modified formula. The experimental data has matched the model predictions, thus supporting the theory developed herein.