Semi-empirical model for prediction of crystal–melt interfacial tension

A simple formula for the crystal–melt interfacial free energy γsl is derived with the aid of the concept of an interplanar adhesion potential function. It is found that γsl scales with the melting point Tm and the atomic volume Ωsm2/3 of the solid at the melting point in conformity with the law of corresponding states and with molecular dynamics simulations. The new expression correctly describes the γsl data obtained in supercooling experiments and explains the nature of Turnbullʹs empirical rule. It predicts γsl for a wide variety of elements including metals and semimetals, and of organic and inorganic substances, in excellent agreement with available experimental data.