Phase transitions and the nucleation of catalytic nanostructures under the action of chemical, physical, and mechanical factors

Basic concepts of first-order phase transitions are formulated, and the state of the art in this field is considered using nanoparticle nucleation and growth as examples. General equations are presented to describe the nanoparticle size distribution function; the average nanoparticle radius; and the density, morphology, and composition of the new phase. Examples are given to illustrate the catalytic effect of nanoparticles on the kinetics of first-order phase transitions in multicomponent systems. The effect of the acidity (pH) of the medium on phase transitions in solutions and the effect of mechanical stress on the nucleation, evolution, and properties of quantum dots are considered.