Melting in confined systems: Monte Carlo simulations of Kr in nano-pores of MCM-41

Melting of krypton confined in 4 nm MCM-41 pore has been studied. A continuous melting, starting from the pore center, has been observed in various thermodynamic conditions: along the saturation line, at constant pressure and at constant number of atoms. The crucial role of the atom–wall interaction has been discussed, particularly its influence on an increase or a reduction of the melting temperature.