Validation of a novel higher-order multi-phase-field model for grain-growth simulations using anisotropic grain-boundary properties

Abstract

The multi-phase-field (MPF) model proposed by Steinbach et al. has several advantages when it comes to numerically simulating the grain growth, recrystallization, and multiple phase transitions. In this study, in order to improve the accuracy of MPF simulations using the anisotropic grain-boundary energy and mobility, which depend strongly on the misorientation angles, we account for the triple-junction properties in the MPF model. Further, two-dimensional simulations of grain-boundary migrations in three-grain systems as well as simulations of abnormal grain growth in a polycrystalline system are performed using the proposed model, in order to confirm its validity. The results show that the proposed model allows for the introduction of the anisotropic energy and mobility with high accuracy for a wider range of misorientations, in contrast to the conventional model.