Melting temperature, nanoparticles surfaces

Veiy high surface area to volume ratio of nanoparticles often provides a tremendous driving force for diffusion, especially at elevated temperatures. Sintering is possible at lower temperatures and over shorter durations for these particles than for larger particles. Theoretically, it does not affect the density of the final product, but flow difficulties and the tendency of nanoparticles to agglomerate do comphcate matters. The surface effects of nanoparticles also reduce the melting temperature. 

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