Cahn-Hilliard Equations and Phase Transition Dynamics for Binary Systems

TL;DR

This paper classifies dynamic phase transitions in binary systems using the Cahn-Hilliard equation, providing new insights into phase separation and transition types through advanced nonlinear analysis.

Contribution

It introduces a new classification scheme for dynamic transitions in binary systems based on the Cahn-Hilliard equation and entropy coupling.

Findings

Classification of phase transition types in binary systems.

Physical predictions derived from the new transition scheme.

Application of dynamic transition theory to phase separation.

Abstract

The process of phase separation of binary systems is described by the Cahn-Hilliard equation. The main objective of this article is to give a classification on the dynamic phase transitions for binary systems using either the classical Cahn-Hilliard equation or the Cahn-Hilliard equation coupled with entropy, leading to some interesting physical predictions. The analysis is based on dynamic transition theory for nonlinear systems and new classification scheme for dynamic transitions, developed recently by the authors.