Cavitation in a binary Lennard–Jones mixture: van der Waals gradient theory and molecular dynamics simulation

The size dependence of the surface tension of critical bubbles in a superheated (stretched) Lennard–Jones solution with complete solubility of the components is considered. Two approaches are used to determine this dependence. The first one is based on the van der Waals gradient theory, and the second one is based on molecular dynamic simulation results of nucleation in a solution. It is established that, unlike in a one-component liquid, where the surface tension of the equilibrium bubble is less than that for the flat interface, in solution, it can exceed the flat limit. The ranges of temperatures, pressures, and mixture compositions, where this effect occurs, are determined. The asymptotic behavior of the surface tension of vapor phase nuclei within the limits of zero and infinitely large curvature of the dividing surface is analyzed.