Estimate of the applicability of Pd–Pt nanoalloy for data recording by the method of phase change

Abstract

Based on the computer simulation, the applicability of using individual nanoclusters of Pt, Pd, and particles of the Pd–Pt nanoalloy as unites of storage of data bits in nonvolatile memory devices, store capability of which is based on the principle of the phase change of the state of the carrier of information, has been estimated. To this end, the temperature and size limits of stability of different internal structures of nanoparticles in the course of the heating (to melting) and subsequent solidification (crystallization) with different rates of heat removal have been established. The results of the computer simulation of the nanoparticles of chemically pure platinum, palladium, and their alloy with different content of Pt atoms have been compared. It has been concluded that the best material for the memory cells the store capability of which is based on the occurrence of phase transitions is the nanoclusters of the Pd–Pt alloy with 10% platinum with a diameter D ≥ 3.5 nm.