Phase-field model for multiphase systems with preserved volume fractions

We report on an interesting formulation of a phase-field model which incorporates a description of individual phases and particles with preserved volume evolving in a system of multiple phases such that the interfacial energy decreases. In our model, an antiforcing free energy density is defined to fulfill constraints on selected volume fractions by counterbalancing phase changes. Phases are defined as regions with energy bearing boundaries that may differ in their physical states, i.e., the regions may be distinguished in structure (crystal transformations), in composition (alloys, mixtures of fluids), or in the orientation of the crystal lattice (grains). The method allows one to simulate the formation of equilibrium crystal shapes and of the migration of inert particles and phases in microstructures. We show two- and three-dimensional simulations of bubble ensembles and foam textures and demonstrate the excellent agreement of crystal morphology configurations with analytical results.