Binary Fluid Spinodal Decomposition

Cahn-Hilliard phase separation dynamics

t = 0
Spinodal decomposition occurs when a binary mixture is quenched into the unstable region of its phase diagram. The Cahn-Hilliard equation ∂φ/∂t = M∇²(φ³ − φ − κ∇²φ) drives spontaneous phase separation into A-rich and B-rich domains that coarsen over time via Ostwald ripening, following a t^(1/3) power law.