Magnetic Effects on Microstructure and Solute Plume Dynamics of Directionally Solidifying Ga-In Alloy

The effects of applying a 0.2 T transverse magnetic field to a solidifying Ga-25%wt.In alloy were investigated through a joint experimental and numerical study. The magnetic field introduced significant changes to both the microstructure and the dynamics of escaping high concentration Ga plumes. Plume migration across the interface was quantified and correlated to simulations to demonstrate that Thermoelectric Magnetohydrodynamics (TEMHD) is the underlying mechanism. TEMHD introduced macro segregation within the dendritic structure leading to the formation of a stable ‘chimney’ channel by increasing solutal buoyancy in the flow direction. The resulting pressure difference across the solidification front, introduced a secondary hydrodynamic phenomenon that subsequently causes solute plume migration.