Overcoming Marangoni Migration in Immiscible Alloys: Gradient Magnetic Field-Induced Spatial and Morphological Regulation of Minority Phase Revealed by X-ray Computed Tomography
摘要
As a self-generated metal matrix composite, the properties of immiscible alloy are highly sensitive to the minority phase particles. However, achieving a homogeneous distribution of the minority phase particles, while simultaneously manipulating their size and morphology during solidification process, is exceedingly challenging. In this study, a homogenous high magnetic field and a gradient high magnetic field are employed to control the solidification process of immiscible alloys. To investigate the influence of various high magnetic fields on the spatial distribution, size, and microstructure of minority phase particles, 3D X-ray computed tomography was employed as a characterization technique. The results show that, in the axial direction of the ingots, particles exhibit finer sizes and a more homogeneous distribution under the gradient high magnetic field compared to homogenous high magnetic field. Along the radial direction of the ingot, the homogenous high magnetic field is ineffective in mitigating the Marangoni migration of particles, whereas the radial magnetic gradient force from the gradient high magnetic field can counterbalance the Marangoni force. Under the homogenous high magnetic field, despite the increased proportion of short rod-like particles, the orientation of their long axes remains unaffected. Conversely, under the gradient high magnetic field, although the relative proportion of spherical particles increases, the potential energy gradient caused the long axes of rod-like particles align parallel to the magnetic field direction. This study presents a novel method for regulating the spatial distribution and morphological characteristics of the minority phase particles in immiscible alloys.