Atomic diffusion in liquid Al-Cu melt under static magnetic fields

Atomic diffusion is a natural phenomenon in liquid melt. Avoiding the melt convection is the most challenging when accuracy in measuring the diffusion coefficient of atoms is desired. The diffusion in liquid Al-Cu melts is studied under various static magnetic fields (SMFs). Thermoelectric magnetic convection is induced during the diffusion in the conductive crucible. It is suppressed by increasing the magnetic flux density or eliminated by using an insulated crucible. The interdiffusion coefficient can be accurately measured in the SMF greater than 3 T. The present work provides a new view to study the solidification of alloys under the SMF. Published under an exclusive license by AIP Publishing.

Automated summary

This study investigates atomic diffusion in liquid melts and finds that the thermoelectric magnetic convection can be suppressed or eliminated by increasing the magnetic flux density or using an insulated crucible. This allows for accurate measurement of the interdiffusion coefficient and provides a new perspective on studying alloy solidification under static magnetic fields.