DEvice for the study of Critical LIquids and Crystallization - Directional Solidification Insert

The objective of this investigation was to obtain benchmark data on cellular and dendritic growth under diffusive growth conditions. Precise measurements of interface shape, cell/dendrite tip radius, tip composition and tip temperature will be carried out as a function of composition, growth rate and thermal gradient values. By systematically varying the process parameters in the absence of gravity-induced convection, the range of interface morphologies will be obtained, yielding insight into the underlying principles that govern dynamical pattern selection. Directional solidification experiments conducted in microgravity using transparent organic analogues will provide real time benchmark data to quantitatively determine conditions for the planar to cellular and cell to dendrite transitions and validate a predictive phase field 3D being developed as part of the investigation.