DIFFUSE INTERFACE MODEL OF CRYSTAL NUCLEATION

Recent developments in the phenomenological diffuse interface theory o f nucleation are reviewed. The applicability for vapor condensation is demonstrated. The diffuse interface concept is applied for crystal nu cleation in melts and glasses. The temperature dependent interfacial f ree energy, obtained by assuming bulk crystal properties in the interi or of nuclei and constant interface thickness, is consistent with expe riments. Comparison is made with modern density functional theories. ( C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.