Liquid–Liquid Phase Transition in Metallic Droplets

We report theoretical evidence of the substrate-induced
liquid–liquid
phase transition (LLPT) behaviors in a single Al droplet and Ti–Al
droplets. The Al droplet can produce an LLPT induced by substrates
in part, forming a special three-layer structure. However, the introduction
of a Ti droplet can promote the LLPT in an Al droplet. Al and Ti droplets
do not coalesce into a homogeneously mixed droplet but produce the
ordered liquid films. The substrate-induced LLPT in the Al droplet
is characterized by the transition from the disordered to ordered
structure. Results indicate that the substrate and the Ti droplet
are the driving forces to promote the LLPT. The LLPT of the Ti–Al
droplets in the wedge-shaped substrate is also observed, indicating
that the confined Ti–Al droplets are more likely to undergo
an LLPT.