This proposal explores transport phenomena and dynamics of solidification in mushy zones of metal alloys. The approach employs both modelling and experimentation on the flow of interdendritic liquid through solid networks. Emphasized are high liquid fractions greater than 0.65% by volume and the associated convective flow. The goals are to determine permeability and correlate it with a microstructural length scale and the volume fraction liquid. Permeability for columnar and equiaxed structures are determined by simulating tortuous flow through actual dendritic networks that are documented by image analysis of the cast structures. The modelling makes use of finite element modelling codes. %%% This research provides an approach to obtaining permeability values needed for the modelling of dendritic solidification processes. Modelling is important for understanding solidification processes and minimizing macrosegregation in castings.
