The rapid solidification of an AL-10wt%Si-Sc alloy

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Solidification of alloys is a complex phenomenon arising in many modern experimental techniques and industrial technologies related to casting and surfaces processing. The variation of different conditions of solidification (such as undercooling or cooling rate) gives a possibility to control the morphology and size of crystal structure, which substantially influence physical and chemical properties of alloys. In particular, deep undercooling of alloys below equilibrium liquidus, and eutectics results in rapid solidification and yields materials with improved mechanical, magnetic and electrical properties. The proposed 3 year project is a collaboration between Equispheres and the Univ. of Alberta. We will generate powder samples using Impulse Atomization (IA) - a single fluid rapid solidification technique. Al-Si (Sc) alloys will be generated. The latter is expected to be supersaturated in the alpha matrix due to undercooling. The solidified samples will be characterized using SEM, X-Ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry and microhardness. In addition, state of the art characterization such as 3D-micro and nano-tomography and Neutron Diffraction will be carried out. The internal dendritic structure of a rapidly solidified droplet will be modeled using a microsegregation model. The characterization data collected will be used to verify the model. We will provide a basis for understanding the solidification structure resulting from solidification processes such as3D printing and high pressure die casting where cooling rates and heat fluxes are similar to IA. The proposed alloy systems are important for automotive and aerospace applications where Canada plays a major role in production and manufacturing. One graduate student will be trained in Canada.