LAUSR

The effect of high magnetic fields on the solute diffusion behavior in the mushy zone of a Mn–Sb alloy has been investigated. A hypoeutectic Mn–Sb alloy was heated in high magnetic fields to yield a mixture of primary MnSb dendrites and Mn/Sb liquid to simulate the mushy state, annealed isothermally for various times, and quenched to room temperature. Without a magnetic field or with a 1-T field, the quenched alloy had a microstructure that was composed of MnSb particles that were dispersed in MnSb/Sb eutectics. At higher magnetic fields, a multiple-phase mixed microstructure that consisted of fine MnSb particles, bulk Sb, and MnSb dendrites and eutectic was observed at relatively short annealing times. The amounts of fine MnSb particles and bulk Sb decreased with an increase in annealing time but increased with an increase in magnetic-flux density. The appearance of the multiple-phase mixed microstructure can be attributed to solute interception in the mushy zone, which can change the solute distribution among the dendrite arms and which is caused by a high magnetic field that is based on the Lorentz force. The application of a high magnetic field to the mushy state of the alloys is proposed as an effective route for the in-situ control of solute diffusion in the mushy zone.The effect of high magnetic fields on the solute diffusion behavior in the mushy zone of a Mn–Sb alloy has been investigated. A hypoeutectic Mn–Sb alloy was heated in high magnetic fields to yield a mixture of primary MnSb dendrites and Mn/Sb liquid to simulate the mushy state, annealed isothermally for various times, and quenched to room temperature. Without a magnetic field or with a 1-T field, the quenched alloy had a microstructure that was composed of MnSb particles that were dispersed in MnSb/Sb eutectics. At higher magnetic fields, a multiple-phase mixed microstructure that consisted of fine MnSb particles, bulk Sb, and MnSb dendrites and eutectic was observed at relatively short annealing times. The amounts of fine MnSb particles and bulk Sb decreased with an increase in annealing time but increased with an increase in magnetic-flux density. The appearance of the multiple-phase mixed microstructure can be attributed to solute interception in the mushy zone, which can change the solute distribution...