Abstract
We show that the crystal growth rate of a very long-chain -alkane from solution can decrease with increasing supersaturation and follow strongly negative order kinetics. The experimental behavior can be well represented by a theoretical model which allows the molecule to attach and detach as either extended or folded in two. The obstruction of extended-chain growth by unstable folded depositions increases disproportionately with increasing concentration. As a consequence of this abnormal kinetics, a “dilution wave” can propagate and trigger a folded-to-extended-chain transformation on its way.
- Received 17 April 2000
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.85.4397
©2000 American Physical Society