This book explores the application of external physical fields to the solidification processing of metallic alloys. Leading academics from around the world present comprehensive and critical reviews on state-of-the-art research and discuss possible future directions. Major physical fields, including electromagnetic, electric, acoustic, and thermal, are considered. In addition, the most advanced synchrotron X-ray based real-time and in-situ studies and numerical modeling methodologies are reviewed and discussed, with a special emphasis on their applications to the solidification processes. Throughout, all chapters are illustrated with both historical and very recent research cases, including typical examples of in-situ studies, modeling, and simulation. This book contains essential knowledge and information suitable for a wide audience, from undergraduate and postgraduate students to academics, practicing researchers, and engineers in materials, metallurgy, and manufacturing.
Preface
Chapter 1. Basics of solidification and casting of metallic alloys (resp. D. Eskin)
1.1. Grain nucleation and growth
1.2. Effects of convection
1.3. External fields and their effects on solidification
1.4. Overview of melt processing and casting technologies
Chapter 2. In-situ studies of the dynamics of solidification processes (resp. J. Mi + R. Mathiesen)
2.1 A brief history of in-situ studies of solidification processes
2.2 X-ray imaging and diffraction studies of grain nucleation and phase transformation
2.3 X-ray tomography studies of 3-D microstructure evolution during solidification
2.4 An overview of advanced numerical modell#-