Solid-solid volume collapse transitions are zeroth order

Abstract

We present an exactly solvable non-linear elastic model of a volume collapse transition in an isotropic solid. Integrity of the lattice through the transition leads to an infinite-range density-density interaction, which drives classical critical behavior. Nucleation is forbidden within a pressure window leading to intrinsic hysteresis and an unavoidable discontinuity of the thermodynamic potential (zeroth order transition). The window shrinks with increasing temperature ending at a critical point at a temperature related to the shear modulus. Mixed phases behave non-extensively and show negative compressibility. We discuss the implications for Ce, SmS, and related systems.