Plotting Phase Diagrams (Temperature vs Composition)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around plotting phase diagrams of Temperature vs Composition for a binary eutectic system involving two metals. Participants explore the application of the Clapeyron equation and its implications for the accuracy of the phase diagram representation.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant presents a formula derived from the Clapeyron equation for plotting the phase diagram and describes their specific calculations, including values for enthalpy and temperatures.
  • Another participant notes that the Clapeyron equation is based on assumptions that may not hold true, particularly regarding the purity of the solid state, suggesting that this could affect the reliability of the results.
  • A participant inquires about alternative equations that might be better suited for plotting binary eutectic phase diagrams.
  • One participant expresses difficulty in achieving the expected results and requests further assistance.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the reliability of the Clapeyron equation for this application, and multiple viewpoints regarding the adequacy of the equation and alternative approaches remain present.

Contextual Notes

Limitations noted include the assumptions of the Clapeyron equation, particularly concerning the purity of the solid state and its applicability at various compositions.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be of interest to those studying phase diagrams, materials science, or thermodynamics, particularly in the context of binary mixtures and eutectic systems.

nyxynyx
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I'm planning to plot phase diagrams of Temperature vs Composition. I found the formula ln(x) = \frac{\Delta H}{R} (\frac{1}{T_A} - \frac{1}{T}) from the Clapeyron equation.

Its a ideal solution of 2 metals in L state and regular solution in S state. Eutectic temperature is at 850C and enthalpy of fusion is \Delta H = 2500 cal/mol (which I converted to 10460 joules) with heat capacity constant, and both materials melt at T_A = 1000C. Rearranging to make T the subject got me T = \frac{1}{\frac{1}{T_A} - \frac{R ln(X_A)}{\delta H}

T = \frac{1}{\frac{1}{T_A} - \frac{R ln(X_A)}{\delta H}

However the graph that I get when plotted out in Matlab does not look like a eutectic graph. I plotted 1-X and X for both metals, and T=1150 for the eutectic line but they don't seem to match. The eutectic point is way lower than the eutecetic line. Did I do something wrong? Thanks!

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/5455/54676710.jpg
 
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The Clapeyron equation relies on some simplifying assumptions, one of which is that the solid state is absolutely pure. I wouldn't expect it to be perfectly reliable far away from x_B=0 or 1.
 
Is there a better equation to use to plot out the binary eutectic phase diagram?
 
Im still unable to figure this out... need a little help thanks :)
 

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