Models of size-dependent nanoparticle melting tested on gold

Models of melting taking into account the finite material size (as for example the diameter of a spherical nanoparticle) lead to a melting point depression compared to the bulk. Selected approaches are presented in this review and compared to available experimental data on gold. Their sensitivity to thermodynamic parameters such as molar volume, surface energy, and enthalpy of melting is highlighted. Within the given accuracy all models describing the non-surface-melting case seem to be valid for gold. In such cases, the simplest solution should be preferred.