Control and Interpretation of Finite-Size Effects and Initial Morphology in Directional Solidification of a Rod-Type Eutectic Transparent Metal-Analog
Résumé
Transparent metal-analog materials offer a great opportunity for in situ investigation of the morphological dynamics that govern the formation of microstructure in metallic alloys. There are, however, several experimental factors that must be controlled or considered for proper and reproducible interpretation. We examine some of these issues here, summarizing our recent findings related to the case of rod-type eutectic solidification, for which we examine the importance of ampoule geometry and initial conditions. Employing directional solidification experiments with thin-slab specimens, we look specifically at finite-size effects on growth morphology and the influence of initial structure on the mechanisms of eutectic onset.