Discovery of a new sub-solidus phase boundary of the binary nitrogen-methane mixture

New data of a sub-solidus phase boundary that has never been detected before were derived from Raman spectroscopy for the binary mixture nitrogen-methane. The experimental data were then evaluated using a robust thermodynamic equation of state, CRYOCHEM 2.0. The consistency between experimental data and thermodynamics found in this work introduces a new phase diagram to be used in future applications at low temperatures. This mixture is the major binary system that represents the most abundant volatiles on icy bodies, like Pluto, Triton, and Eris. The new phase diagram will lead to a better understanding of the atmospheres and surfaces of these bodies, at present, past, or future geophysical conditions.