Mathematical modelling of solute segregation in solidifying materials

Abstract

The physical and mechanical properties of materials are strongly affected by processing conditions. For many materials, one of the major stages is solidification. During this process, the homogeneity of the liquid phase is often destroyed, resulting in a material with non-uniform properties, which can be considerably different than those of a comparable homogeneous alloy. Solute segregation as a result of solidification is discussed in terms of the mathematical models which have been developed over the past 75 years. Models are reviewed according to the major phenomena they seek to simulate: this includes the effects of morphology, solid and liquid phase diffusion, convection, phase transformations, and multiple components. The coupling of macroscopic and microscopic models to yield a more unified picture of mass transfer resulting from solidification is also discussed.