Scaled equations for the coexistence curve, the capillary constant and the surface tension of n-alkanes

A review of experimental data of several fluids shows that their coexistence curve follows a power law in reduced temperature at the approach of the critical point, with an universal exponent equal to 0.325, their capillary constant a power law with an universal exponent equal to 0.925 and their surface tension a power law with an universal exponent equal to 1.26. In the critical region, the concept of two-scale-factor universality was used to predict the density difference amplitude, the capillary constant amplitude, and the surface tension amplitude between near critical vapor and liquid phases. A comparison with amplitudes determined from experimental data is given. In order to extend this universality all along the liquid–gas coexistence curve from the triple point to the critical point for n-alkanes, a mean field approximation was used far away from TC. We show that the density difference, the capillary constant and the surface tension can be calculated with a reasonable accuracy by generalized scaled equations adding only two empirical constants. A comparison between calculated and experimental data is presented.