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Two-dimensional bicontinuous structures from symmetric surface-directed spinodal decomposition in thin films.
Michael B Wise1, Paul C Millett1
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Arkansas 72701, USA.
Physical Review. E
|September 27, 2018
Summary
Numerical simulations reveal three distinct morphologies in thin films undergoing surface-directed spinodal decomposition. A unique bicontinuous structure emerges under specific film thickness and composition conditions, guiding future material design.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Physics
Background:
- Surface-directed spinodal decomposition is crucial for creating nanostructured materials.
- Understanding phase separation in thin films is essential for controlling material properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphologies resulting from symmetric surface-directed spinodal decomposition in thin films.
- To explore the influence of film thickness and composition on phase separation.
- To identify conditions leading to unique morphological structures.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulations using the Cahn-Hilliard model.
- Modeling phase separation kinetics in confined film geometries.
- Analysis of resulting morphologies using the Hoshen-Kopelman algorithm.
Main Results:
- Three distinct morphologies were observed: discrete nonwetting, discrete wetting, and a novel 2D bicontinuous structure.
- The bicontinuous morphology forms for specific film thickness and composition values.
- A morphology map was generated to characterize phase separation outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Film thickness and composition significantly dictate the emergent morphologies.
- The identified morphologies and the morphology map provide insights for designing thin-film materials.
- This study offers a predictive framework for controlling nanostructure formation in thin films.
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