Journal of Physical Chemistry, Vol.99, No.13, 4757-4762, 1995
Investigation of Solidification of Benzophenone in the Supercooled Liquid-State
A study of the solidification of supercooled liquid benzophenone (BZP) is presented. As is well-known, liquid BZP can be extensively supercooled without crystallization or glass formation. In the experiments, the BZP liquid --> solid phase transition is activated by either seeding or momentary freezing (using liquid nitrogen) of a portion of liquid. Measurements of the position of the liquid/solid interface as a function of time are reported. In the case of seeding, the temperature dependence of the interface propagation is examined over a range exceeding 120 K. BZP solidification is found to occur via two modes, each demonstrating its own distinct kinetics and morphology. For purposes of comparison, results of experiments with 4,4’-dimethylbenzophenone are also presented. A cellular model for BZP solidification and liquid metastability is offered.