Density, viscosity and surface tension of gallium rich Al-Ga alloys

Abstract

The aluminium-gallium system exhibits many unique properties, but not enough work has been dedicated to its properties in the liquid state. This study deals with the thermophysical properties of binary Al-Ga alloys on the Ga-rich side of the phase diagram, and aims at a better understanding of its thermophysical properties, including surface properties. The density, viscosity and surface tension of six compositions were analysed using the discharge crucible method. Al-Ga alloys with 0.82, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40 wt.% of Al were prepared and measured in the 323-923 K temperature range. Moreover, the mentioned properties have been modelled by a variety of mathematical models. The density decreases with increased aluminium content. The viscosity and surface tension increases with higher Al amounts. Additionally, models such as Brillo and Egry were used to calculate the theoretical density, the Moelywen-Hughes, Kucharski, Kozlov, Romanov and Petrov, and Gąsior were used in the case of viscosity. The modelling of surface tension was achieved using the ideal model proposed by Egry, and the Butler model. The experimental results showed good agreement with the mentioned models.