Rapid Solidification Processing

Rapid Solidification Technology

Rapid solidification processing results in increased strength, and fracture and fatigue resistance of alloys, with concurrent improvements in mechanical, physical and chemical properties. This volume provides a systematic examination of this technology, including metallurgical aspects, processing methods, alloy design, and applications. Each chapter was prepared by a specialist for this volume. The text is well illustrated with more than 400 micrographs and schematics. More than 75 tables provide important reference data.

Rapid Solidification Processing

Principles of Solidification

“Principles of Solidification” offers comprehensive descriptions of liquid-to-solid transitions encountered in shaped casting, welding, and non-biological bulk crystal growth processes. The book logically develops through careful presentation of relevant thermodynamic and kinetic theories and models of solidification occurring in a variety of materials. Major topics encompass the liquid-state, liquid-solid transformations, chemical macro- and microsegregation, purification by fractional crystallization and zone refining, solid-liquid interfaces, polyphase freezing, and rapid solidification processing. Solid-liquid interfaces are discussed quantitatively both as sharp and diffuse entities, with supporting differential geometric descriptions. The book offers: • Detailed mathematical examples throughout to guide readers • Applications of solidification and crystal growth methodologies for preparation and purification of metals, ceramics, polymers and semiconductors • Appendices providing supporting information on special topics covered in the chapters. Readers in materials, metallurgical, chemical, and mechanical engineering will find this to be a useful source on the subjects of solidification and crystal growth. Chemists, physicists, and geologists concerned with melting/freezing phenomena will also find much of value in this book.