Thermodynamics of nanoparticles: experimental protocol based on a comprehensive Ginzburg-Landau interpretation

The effects of surface and interface on the thermodynamics of small particles require a deeper understanding. This step is crucial for the development of models that can be used for decision-making support to design nanomaterials with original properties. On the basis of experimental results for phase transitions in compressed ZnO nanoparticles, we show the limitations of classical thermodynamics approaches (Gibbs and Landau). We develop a new model based on the Ginzburg-Landau theory that requires the consideration of several terms, such as the interaction between nanoparticles, pressure gradients, defect density, and so on. This phenomenological approach sheds light on the discrepancies in the literature as it identifies several possible parameters that should be taken into account to properly describe the transformations. For the sake of clarity and standardization, we propose an experimental protocol that must be followed during high-pressure investigations of nanoparticles in order to obtain coherent, reliable data that can be used by the scientific community.