Multi-phase-field simulation of microstructure evolution in metallic foams

Samad Vakili,Fathollah Varnik,Ingo Steinbach

doi:10.1038/s41598-020-76766-z

Samad Vakili, Fathollah Varnik + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-76766-z

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Abstract

This paper represents a model for microstructure formation in metallic foams based on the multi-phase-field approach. The model allows to naturally account for the effect of additives which prevent two gas bubbles from coalescence. By applying a non-merging criterion to the phase fields and at the same time raising the free energy penalty associated with additives, it is possible to completely prevent coalescence of bubbles in the time window of interest and thus focus on the formation of a closed porous microstructure. On the other hand, using a modification of this criterion along with lower free energy barriers we investigate with this model initiation of coalescence and the evolution of open structures. The method is validated and used to simulate foam structure formation both in two and three dimensions.

Highlights

This paper represents a model for microstructure formation in metallic foams based on the multiphase-field approach
Despite growing interest in using metallic foams, little is known about the mechanisms of microstructure formation in this class of materials
Aiming to mimic the case of an open melt pool, the density of the melt pool is kept constant. This corresponds to the situation that liquid can leave the simulation domain upon bubble growth

Summary

Introduction

This paper represents a model for microstructure formation in metallic foams based on the multiphase-field approach. The property that, within multi-phase-field method, one can assign a different phase index to each individual bubble provides a natural way to completely prevent the coalescence process.

Results

Conclusion