Stabilization of Nanoscale Quasi-Liquid Interfacial Films in Inorganic Materials: A Review and Critical Assessment

Author: Luo, Jian

Source: Critical Reviews in Solid State and Material Sciences, Volume 32, Numbers 1-2, January 2007 , pp. 67-109(43)

Publisher: Taylor and Francis Ltd

Abstract:

Recent observations of three classes of nanometer-thick, disordered, interfacial films in multicomponent inorganic materials are reviewed and critically assessed. The three classes of films are equilibrium-thickness intergranular films (IGFs) in ceramics, their free-surface counterparts, that is, surficial amorphous films (SAFs), and their metallic counterparts. Also briefly reviewed are several related wetting and adsorption phenomena in simpler systems, including premelting in unary systems, prewetting in binary liquids or vapor adsorption on inert walls, and frustrated-complete wetting. Analogous diffuse-interface and force-balance models are discussed with the goal of exploring a unifying thermodynamic framework. In general, the stability of these nanometer-thick interfacial films does not follow bulk phase diagrams. Stabilization of quasi-liquid interfacial films at subeutectic or undersaturation conditions in multicomponent materials can be understood from coupled interfacial premelting and prewetting transitions. More realistic models should include additional interfacial interactions, for example, dispersion and electrostatic forces, and consider the possibility for metastable equilibration. It is suggested that quasi-liquid grain boundary films in binary metallic systems can be used to validate a basic thermodynamic model. These nanoscale interfacial films are technologically important. For example, the short-circuit diffusion that occurs in interface-stabilized, subeutectic, quasi-liquid films explains the long-standing mystery of the solid-state activated sintering mechanism in ceramics, refractory metals, and ice.

Keywords: intergranular films; surficial amorphous films; equilibrium thickness; prewetting; premelting; activated sintering

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/10408430701364388

Affiliations: 1: School of Materials Science and Engineering, 201 Olin Hall, Clemson University, Clemson, South Carolina, USA

Publication date: 2007-01-01

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