Can someone provide an in-depth explanation (or a link, or even a book) behind the physics of melting-point depression?

I'm specifically interested in the use of DMSO as a cryoprotectant.

I know, generally, that there is a disruption of the intermolecular forces holding the solid crystal lattice together and thus prevent crystal formation - but that's clearly handwavy as hell.

Question

Can someone provide an in-depth explanation (or a link, or even a book) behind the physics of melting-point depression?

I'm specifically interested in the use of DMSO as a cryoprotectant.

I know, generally, that there is a disruption of the intermolecular forces holding the solid crystal lattice together and thus prevent crystal formation - but that's clearly handwavy as hell.

surry99 · Answer

http://www.chem.arizona.edu/~salzmanr/480a/480ants/colprop/colprop.html This is ok, deals with the thermodynamics.

aaronq · Answer

Thanks for the link, not really what i'm looking for (i already know about that).

My inquiry is more about the processes at a smaller scale - perhaps a molecular scale.

surry99 · Answer

ok, I will see if I can find anything for that.

surry99 · Answer

This is based on very small particle size... http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melting-point_depression

aaronq · Answer

thanks!

surry99 · Answer

your welcome