In situ characterization of interface-microstructure dynamics in 3D-Directional Solidification of model transparent alloys

Abstract

Microstructure plays a central role in determining properties of materials so that the fundamental understanding of the physics of microstructure selection is critical in the design of materials. Under terrestrial conditions fluid flow effects are dominant in bulk samples which preclude precise characterization of fundamental physics of microstructure selection. Experiments in thin samples, carried out to obtain diffusive growth, give microstructures that are neither 2D nor 3D. Rigorous theoretical models, using the phase-field method, have shown that the fundamental physics of pattern selection in 2D and 3D is significantly different. A benchmark experimental study is required in bulk samples under low gravity conditions. Also, the selection of microstructure occurs during the dynamical growth process so that in situ observations of spatio-temporal evolution of the interface shapes are required. Microgravity experiments on ISS are thus planned in a model transparent system by using a new Directional Solidification Insert (DSI), designed for use in the DECLIC facility of CNES and to be adapted to also fit ESA experiments. The critical aspects of hardware design, the key fundamental issues identified through 1g-experiments, the proposed experimental study on ISS, and the results of rigorous theoretical modeling are presented.