Abstract
The Kampmann and Wagner mathematical model of precipitation kinetics is used to investigate the dependence of the maximum precipitate density on precipitation parameters. For the Cu-rich Cu–Co system, a relationship is derived that allows the precipitate/matrix interfacial free energy and the density of nucleation sites to be deduced from measurements of the maximum precipitate density. This relationship is shown to agree very well with published experimental data. A criterion for assessing the suitability of experimental data for analysis by our relationship is proposed and is tested on the available results.
Acknowledgements
M.J.S. wishes to thank Professor D.J. Fray for the provision of research facilities and Professors L.M. Brown and K.F. Kelton for helpful advice.